Coffee Bean
General Information about Coffee Bean
The hex color code #2C1009, also known as Coffee Bean, is a dark, desaturated reddish-brown. It belongs to the brown color family, characterized by its low brightness and muted tones. In the RGB color model, #2C1009 is composed of 17.25% red, 6.27% green, and 3.53% blue. This combination results in a color that evokes feelings of warmth, earthiness, and sophistication. Coffee Bean is often associated with natural elements, such as wood, soil, and, of course, coffee. It's a popular choice for designs that aim to create a sense of comfort, stability, and understated elegance. The color is not particularly vibrant, making it suitable for backgrounds or accent elements where a subtle, grounding effect is desired. Its hexadecimal nature allows for precise color specification in digital applications.
The color #2C1009, also known as Coffee Bean, presents considerable accessibility challenges, especially when used as a text color. Its low lightness value results in a very dark appearance, creating insufficient contrast against typical light backgrounds like white or light gray. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to ensure readability for users with visual impairments. Coffee Bean likely fails to meet these contrast requirements with many common background colors, making it difficult for individuals with low vision to perceive the text clearly. To improve accessibility, consider using Coffee Bean sparingly, such as for decorative elements or in combination with a much lighter foreground color that provides adequate contrast. Tools like contrast checkers can help evaluate and adjust color pairings to meet accessibility standards.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4e342e
A slightly lighter brown that provides better contrast against light backgrounds while maintaining a warm, earthy feel.
- #a39183
A dark beige color that offers a neutral and accessible alternative for backgrounds or text.
- #5d4037
A less saturated brown, which reduces the intensity and makes it easier on the eyes when used extensively.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Coffee Bean (#2C1009) can be used to create a sophisticated and earthy aesthetic. It's particularly suitable for backgrounds or borders in websites related to coffee, chocolate, or natural products. Use it sparingly for text as it may pose accessibility issues due to its low contrast. Combining it with lighter, contrasting colors like beige or cream can enhance readability. For instance, a coffee shop website could use Coffee Bean as a background color for its header and footer, paired with white or light beige text for navigation menus and headings. This color helps to evoke a sense of warmth and richness.
Interior Design
In interior design, Coffee Bean (#2C1009) serves as a grounding color, often used for accent walls or furniture pieces to add depth and warmth to a room. It pairs well with lighter neutrals like creams, beiges, and soft grays to create a balanced and inviting space. For example, a living room might feature a Coffee Bean-colored sofa against a light gray wall, complemented by beige throw pillows and a cream-colored rug. This combination creates a cozy and sophisticated atmosphere. Avoid using it in small, poorly lit spaces as it can make the area feel darker and more cramped.
Fashion
In fashion, Coffee Bean (#2C1009) is a versatile color that can be used for clothing, accessories, and footwear. It provides a sophisticated and understated look, making it suitable for both casual and formal wear. A Coffee Bean-colored coat or pair of boots can be paired with a variety of colors, from neutrals like black and white to bolder hues like burgundy or olive green. The deep, rich tone of Coffee Bean adds a touch of elegance to any outfit, making it a popular choice for fall and winter collections. It can also be used for accessories like belts, handbags, and hats to add a subtle accent to an ensemble.