Coffee Bean
General Information about Coffee Bean (#2C1409)
The hexadecimal color code #2C1409 represents a very dark shade of brown, often referred to as "Coffee Bean." In the RGB color model, it is composed of 17.25% red, 7.84% green, and 3.53% blue. This combination results in a color that is perceived as warm, earthy, and rich. The low percentage of green and blue relative to red gives it the characteristic brown hue. This color is commonly associated with nature, comfort, and stability. Colors similar to Coffee Bean are often used to evoke feelings of warmth and security. In color theory, dark browns like this are considered neutral colors, offering versatility in design applications. It is essential to be aware of its low lightness for accessibility purposes, as it may require careful consideration of contrast ratios when used with text or interactive elements.
The color #2C1409, a deep, dark brown, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as text, it necessitates a very light background to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) standards for contrast ratios. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for normal text and 3:1 for large text. This dark brown will likely fail against many standard background colors, potentially making content unreadable for users with low vision or color blindness. Therefore, careful consideration of background and foreground color combinations is crucial. To ensure accessibility, consider pairing it with shades of white, very light beige, or pale yellow. Tools for checking color contrast ratios are readily available online and should be integrated into the design process to avoid accessibility issues. Also, avoid using this color for essential information like links or buttons without proper contrast, as this can create usability issues for many users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #4e342e
A slightly lighter and warmer brown that offers improved contrast against various backgrounds while maintaining a natural, earthy feel.
- #5d4037
A neutral gray-brown that provides a more subtle and versatile alternative, suitable for backgrounds and less critical text elements.
- #333333
A very dark gray that approaches black but offers a bit of visual texture, providing a high contrast option for readability.
Applications
Website Design (Accents)
In web design, #2C1409 can be utilized sparingly for background accents or borders to evoke a sense of warmth and sophistication. It is best used for non-essential design elements to avoid compromising readability. Consider employing it in website footers, decorative dividers, or as a subtle overlay on images. However, due to its darkness, always ensure sufficient contrast with any text or interactive elements placed above it. Careful consideration should be given to its application in UI elements, favoring it for purely decorative purposes rather than functional components where clear visibility is paramount. The color can also be used to create a dark mode theme for websites, in combination with off-white or beige for the main text.
Interior Design (Accents)
In interior design, this coffee bean hue can bring a touch of grounding warmth and elegance. It’s perfect for accent walls in living rooms or bedrooms to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This color pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone, enhancing the organic feel of a space. It can also be used in smaller doses, such as for furniture upholstery or decorative accessories, to add depth and richness to a room. This color works nicely with earth tones, such as muted greens, tans, and creams, in order to create a calm environment. However, due to its low lightness, this color should be balanced with lighter colors to keep the room from feeling too dark and cramped.
Fashion Design
In fashion, Coffee Bean (#2C1409) evokes a sense of understated elegance and rustic charm. It can be used in the design of apparel and accessories. Garments in this color are suitable for creating a grounded and sophisticated look. Pair it with lighter colors like cream, beige, or pastel shades to create a balanced and harmonious outfit. Leather accessories, such as belts or boots, are also ideal applications of this dark shade of brown. Furthermore, it is perfect for autumn and winter wardrobes, reflecting the cozy and natural aesthetics of these seasons.