Pickled Bluewood
General Information about #2A4351
The hexadecimal color #2A4351, often referred to as Pickled Bluewood, is a muted, dark shade of blue-gray. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 16.47% red, 26.27% green, and 31.76% blue. This particular blend creates a color that is perceived as calming and reserved. It's a color that doesn't immediately draw attention but rather provides a subtle and sophisticated backdrop. Colors similar to it are often found in nature, such as in weathered wood or deep ocean waters, hence the name 'Pickled Bluewood'. It belongs to a family of colors that are generally associated with stability, reliability, and a sense of tranquility. The hex code #2A4351 can be used in various applications, from web design to interior decoration, to achieve a sense of understated elegance.
The hex color #2A4351, also known as Pickled Bluewood, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a text color, it's crucial to ensure sufficient contrast against the background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This color may not be suitable for conveying critical information or interactive elements like links and buttons if paired with a light background, as users with visual impairments may struggle to differentiate them. To improve accessibility, consider using a lighter shade of text or a darker background to enhance contrast. Additionally, provide alternative cues like icons or text labels to supplement the color coding. Testing with accessibility tools and gathering feedback from users with disabilities can help determine the effectiveness of the color choices.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #345663
A slightly lighter shade that offers improved contrast against dark backgrounds, making text more readable.
- #223540
A darker variant provides better contrast on lighter backgrounds, ensuring readability for users with visual impairments.
- #808080
A neutral grey can provide a safe accessible option for text in UI elements
Applications
Website Backgrounds
In web development, #2A4351 can be employed as a secondary color in website designs aiming for a subdued and professional aesthetic. It works well for backgrounds in footers or sidebars, offering a calming visual experience without being overly distracting. For instance, an educational website might utilize this color to create a sense of stability and trustworthiness. However, it's crucial to pair it with higher contrast colors for text and interactive elements to ensure accessibility. Combining it with complementary colors in infographics can also create a sophisticated color palette.
Interior Design Accent
In interior design, Pickled Bluewood evokes a sense of tranquility and sophistication. It can be used as an accent wall color in living rooms or bedrooms, creating a soothing and restful atmosphere. Pairing it with natural materials like wood and linen enhances its organic feel. It can also be used for cabinetry in kitchens or bathrooms, offering a subtle alternative to traditional neutrals. Its calming presence makes it well-suited for creating serene and inviting spaces. Accents of brighter colors, such as mustard yellow or coral, can provide a striking contrast.
Fashion and Textiles
Pickled Bluewood can be incorporated into the textile industry for clothing, upholstery, and decorative purposes. For clothing, it can serve as a base color for creating elegant dresses, shirts, or trousers. It pairs well with contrasting hues like mustard yellow or burnt orange for a sophisticated look. In upholstery, it can be used for sofas, cushions, or curtains to create a calm and inviting atmosphere in living spaces. Also a great option for accessories like scarves or ties.