Mikado
General Information about #2C2010
The hexadecimal color code #2C2010, often referred to as 'Mikado,' is a dark shade of brown, evoking a sense of earthiness, warmth, and sophistication. It's created by combining relatively low amounts of red (2C), green (20), and blue (10) in the RGB color model. In the CMYK color model, which is often used for printing, #2C2010 consists of high percentages of cyan, magenta, yellow, and black. This makes it suitable for creating rich, deep tones in printed materials. The color's muted nature makes it a versatile choice for a variety of design applications, particularly those aiming for a classic, natural, or luxurious feel. Its understated elegance allows it to be paired with a wide range of other colors, from warm neutrals to bold, contrasting hues, offering designers considerable flexibility in creating harmonious color palettes.
The color #2C2010, also known as Mikado, presents several accessibility considerations for web developers. Its dark hue results in a low contrast ratio against standard white backgrounds, potentially causing readability issues for users with visual impairments. To ensure inclusivity, it's crucial to pair this color with significantly lighter text colors, aiming for a contrast ratio that meets WCAG guidelines (minimum 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text). Using color contrast checkers is highly recommended during the design phase. Furthermore, avoid relying solely on color to convey important information, as colorblind users may not be able to distinguish it effectively. Providing supplementary cues, such as text labels or icons, is essential for universal accessibility. Also, consider the overall color scheme of the webpage, as too many dark colors can create a visually heavy and potentially uninviting user experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter brown that provides better contrast on white backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
A more neutral dark grey that offers greater flexibility in pairing with various text colors.
A warmer brown tone that adds a touch of richness and can be paired with lighter accent colors.
Applications
Website Header/Footer
Mikado (#2C2010) can be effectively used as a background color for website headers or footers to create a sophisticated and grounded feel. Its dark nature allows for light-colored text and navigation elements to stand out prominently, enhancing user experience. When implementing this color, ensure the text used has sufficient contrast and is easily legible. The overall website design should avoid feeling monotonous and instead embrace a balance between dark and lighter areas. Consider applying subtle hover effects on menu elements to improve user interactivity. For instance, this color could work well for a website relating to coffee, leather goods, or vintage themes.
Product Packaging
This color can be used to create elegant and understated packaging designs, particularly for products like gourmet chocolates, aged spirits, or premium cigars. The dark brown conveys a sense of luxury and tradition, appealing to discerning consumers. Paired with gold or copper accents, the packaging can further evoke a sense of exclusivity and quality. The overall design should focus on simplicity and refinement, allowing the color to take center stage. Consider using textured paper stock or embossing to add a tactile element that enhances the product's appeal.
User Interface Elements
Mikado provides an excellent color choice for elements within a user interface. For example, buttons or progress bars could use this color. Because it is not too bright, it will not distract the user but at the same time can be easily found. Consider using it for elements with lower priority on the screen.