Rangitoto
General Information
The hexadecimal color code #312C21, often referred to as Rangitoto, is a dark, subdued shade of brown, evoking a sense of earthiness and grounding. It is composed of 19.22% red, 17.25% green, and 12.94% blue. In the RGB color space, it is a relatively desaturated color, contributing to its muted and sophisticated appearance. This color lends itself well to creating a calm and stable visual environment. In the CMYK color model, it consists of 0% cyan, 10% magenta, 33% yellow, and 81% black. The name 'Rangitoto' possibly references the Rangitoto Island, a volcanic island near Auckland, New Zealand, which shares a similar dark, earthy tone. This color is versatile and can be applied in various design contexts to convey a sense of natural elegance and understated luxury.
The color #312C21, also known as Rangitoto, presents some accessibility challenges, particularly concerning color contrast. When used as a background color, it necessitates light-colored text to ensure readability. A contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 is recommended for standard text and 3:1 for large text to meet WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) AA standards. Insufficient contrast can make content difficult or impossible to read for users with visual impairments. Tools like contrast checkers can help determine if the color combination meets accessibility standards. Consideration should also be given to users with color blindness, as certain color pairings might not be distinguishable. Implementing proper ARIA labels and semantic HTML can further enhance accessibility, providing alternative ways for users to understand content regardless of color perception.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #3a3428
A slightly lighter shade that maintains a similar aesthetic while improving contrast against dark text.
- #383024
A warmer tone that provides a more inviting feel and can be easier on the eyes.
- #28241a
A darker shade offering a deeper, richer tone for backgrounds or elements needing more visual weight.
Applications
Website Backgrounds
Rangitoto (#312C21) offers a sophisticated and grounding presence in web design. This color can be effectively used in website backgrounds for brands aiming to project an image of stability, reliability, and understated elegance. It pairs particularly well with minimalist layouts and can serve as a neutral backdrop that allows content to stand out. For example, a website for a high-end furniture company could use Rangitoto as its background color, complemented by white or cream-colored text and product images, to create a refined and inviting online experience. The use of this color can also extend to elements such as navigation bars and footers to create a cohesive visual identity.
Interior Design
In interior design, Rangitoto (#312C21) creates a cozy and intimate atmosphere, reminiscent of natural landscapes and earthy tones. This color works exceptionally well in living rooms and bedrooms, providing a sense of warmth and tranquility. It can be applied to walls, accent pieces, or even furniture upholstery to establish a grounding presence. Pairing Rangitoto with natural materials such as wood, leather, and linen enhances its organic appeal, creating a harmonious and inviting space. For example, a living room with walls painted in Rangitoto, complemented by a leather sofa, wooden coffee table, and linen curtains, would evoke a sense of rustic elegance.
Fashion Design
Rangitoto (#312C21) can be incorporated into fashion design to create pieces that exude sophistication and understated style. This color works well for garments such as jackets, trousers, and skirts, providing a versatile neutral base that can be paired with a variety of colors and textures. Its earthy tone makes it suitable for both casual and formal wear. Using Rangitoto in fashion can also evoke a sense of naturalness and earthiness, making it a popular choice for brands focusing on sustainable and eco-friendly materials. Furthermore, it can be used as an accent color in accessories such as scarves and belts, adding a touch of subtle elegance.