Mine Shaft
General Information about #2C3331
The hex color #2C3331, commonly known as 'Mine Shaft,' is a dark, desaturated shade of gray-green. It belongs to the family of neutral colors and possesses a subtle earthy undertone, making it a versatile choice for various design applications. Its hexadecimal representation consists of '2C' for red, '33' for green, and '31' for blue. In the RGB color model, it translates to approximately 17.3% red, 20% green, and 19.2% blue. The color's muted nature allows it to blend seamlessly into backgrounds and create a calming visual effect. Colors like these are often chosen to convey sophistication and simplicity.
The color #2C3331, also known as Mine Shaft, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning text legibility. When used as a background color, it requires careful selection of foreground text colors to ensure sufficient contrast. According to WCAG guidelines, a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text. Using lighter text colors such as white or very light grays can improve readability. Additionally, avoid using this color for crucial interactive elements without clear visual cues to aid users with visual impairments. Providing alternative styling options or themes can further enhance accessibility for a wider range of users.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #434A45
A slightly lighter shade of gray that provides better contrast when used as a background color with darker text.
- #1A1F1D
A darker shade of gray that is suitable for text or UI elements where a stronger visual separation is required.
- #223029
A dark shade of green for an alternative background color for nature-inspired themes.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Mine Shaft can be used as a background color for websites with a minimalist or industrial aesthetic. It pairs well with brighter accent colors like teal or orange to create visual interest. The color also works well for navigation bars, footers, or other secondary UI elements, providing a subtle backdrop that doesn't distract from the main content. Using it sparingly can evoke a sense of sophistication and modernity, especially in portfolios or design-focused websites.
Interior Design
In interior design, Mine Shaft can be used to create a modern and sophisticated atmosphere in living spaces. It works particularly well in rooms with ample natural light, where it can add depth and dimension without feeling too dark or heavy. It can be used for walls, furniture, or accent pieces, and pairs well with materials like wood, metal, and concrete. Consider incorporating pops of color through artwork, textiles, or accessories to prevent the space from feeling monotonous.
Fashion
In fashion, Mine Shaft can be incorporated into outfits and accessories to create an effortlessly cool and stylish look. As a neutral shade, it pairs well with a wide range of colors and styles, making it a versatile addition to any wardrobe. It can be used for outerwear, pants, skirts, or accessories like bags and shoes. Consider layering it with other neutral tones for a monochromatic look, or pairing it with bolder colors for a statement outfit.