Coffee Bean
General Information about Coffee Bean (#301209)
The hexadecimal color #301209, commonly referred to as Coffee Bean, is a dark shade of brown, reminiscent of roasted coffee beans. It is composed of 18.82% red, 7.06% green, and 3.53% blue. In the RGB color space, it is represented as rgb(48, 18, 9). This color is often associated with warmth, earthiness, and sophistication. In color psychology, browns like Coffee Bean can evoke feelings of comfort, stability, and reliability. It is frequently used in designs aiming to create a sense of groundedness and authenticity. Due to its low luminance, #301209 is generally not recommended as a primary color for text or large backgrounds, as it can pose accessibility challenges. However, it can be effectively used as an accent color or for decorative elements to add depth and richness to a design. The color is part of the brown color group, which is universally recognized and often connected with nature.
The color #301209, also known as Coffee Bean, presents significant accessibility challenges, particularly in text-based applications. Its low luminance value results in a poor contrast ratio against standard light backgrounds, making it difficult for users with visual impairments to read text rendered in this color. According to WCAG guidelines, sufficient contrast is crucial for readability. To improve accessibility, it's essential to pair this dark hue with significantly lighter colors to ensure a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #301209 for interactive elements, consider providing alternative visual cues, such as borders or icons, to ensure that users can easily identify and interact with these elements. Thoroughly testing the color scheme with accessibility evaluation tools and involving users with disabilities in the testing process is highly recommended to validate its usability.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A slightly lighter shade of brown that offers improved readability against white backgrounds.
A warmer brown tone that provides a more inviting feel while maintaining a dark aesthetic.
For a more muted dark tone, use this option. It presents better visual contrast on brighter backgrounds.
Applications
Web Design Accent
In web design, Coffee Bean can serve as an accent color for backgrounds or borders, particularly in designs aiming for a rustic or earthy aesthetic. It should be paired with lighter text colors to ensure readability. It is often used sparingly to create a sophisticated and understated look, adding depth without overwhelming the user interface. Its dark nature makes it well-suited for use in night mode settings or for elements intended to recede into the background, enhancing the visual hierarchy of the design.
Interior Design
In interior design, Coffee Bean can be used for wall paint in studies or libraries to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. It can also be applied to furniture such as leather sofas or wooden tables to add a touch of elegance and warmth. This color works particularly well when combined with natural materials and soft lighting to create a comforting and inviting space. When used in larger areas, it's important to balance it with lighter colors to prevent the room from feeling too dark or oppressive.
Cosmetics
In the beauty industry, Coffee Bean is often used in eyeshadow palettes and eyebrow pencils to achieve a natural and defined look. This shade complements a variety of skin tones, adding depth and dimension to the eyes and brows. It can also be incorporated into nail polish collections, offering a sophisticated and understated alternative to traditional black or brown shades. When used in makeup, Coffee Bean provides a versatile option for creating both subtle everyday looks and more dramatic evening styles.