Rangitoto
General Information about #2E2F20
The hexadecimal color #2E2F20, often referred to as 'Rangitoto', is a dark, muted shade of brown. It resides within the realm of earth tones, evoking feelings of nature, stability, and groundedness. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 18.04% red, 18.43% green, and 12.55% blue. Its CMYK representation is approximately 0% cyan, 2% magenta, 31% yellow, and 82% black. This color lacks strong saturation, contributing to its understated and versatile nature. Named after Rangitoto Island, a volcanic island near Auckland, New Zealand, the color embodies the island's rugged and natural landscape, further enhancing its appeal in design contexts aiming for a natural and earthy aesthetic.
The color #2E2F20, while possessing a unique and earthy tone, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in web design. Its low luminance value results in poor contrast against both white and black backgrounds. This can make text difficult to read for users with visual impairments, including those with low vision or color blindness. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for ensuring readability and usability. To improve accessibility, it is recommended to pair #2E2F20 with significantly lighter colors, such as off-whites or light yellows, for text and interactive elements. Alternatively, consider using it sparingly for decorative elements where legibility is not paramount. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate the color combination's compliance with accessibility standards, aiming for a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3e4030
A slightly lighter shade that offers better contrast while maintaining a similar earthy feel.
- #4e342e
A more saturated brown that provides better visual distinction.
- #2a3422
A dark green tone that could work as a substitute for #2E2F20, offering a hint of nature and a dark hue for use in backgrounds or accents.
Applications
Website Background
In web design, #2E2F20 can serve as a background color for website sections that require a subdued, natural, or vintage aesthetic. It creates a sense of warmth and can be used for headers, footers, or sidebars. However, careful consideration must be given to text color choices to ensure sufficient contrast and readability, making it suitable for highlighting important elements and content sections. The dark tone will require sufficient bright or light colors so it does not cause any accessibility issues on the website. It can also be used to highlight elements or buttons.
Interior Design Wall Color
#2E2F20 can be incorporated into interior design as a wall color in rooms where a sense of grounding and tranquility is desired, such as studies or bedrooms. It pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, creating a sophisticated and organic feel. This can also be incorporated in furniture such as tables or lamps for a modern design. Its muted tone allows other colors and textures to stand out while providing a cohesive and elegant backdrop.
Branding for Eco-Friendly Products
In graphic design, #2E2F20 is suitable for branding materials related to eco-friendly or sustainable products. Its association with earth tones evokes a sense of environmental consciousness and trustworthiness. It can be used in logos, packaging, and promotional materials to convey a brand's commitment to nature and sustainability. This can further increase the brand's value for customers and make the product more appealing.