Mortar
General Information about Mortar (#4E4655)
The hexadecimal color code #4E4655 represents a muted, grayish-purple hue, often described as a Mortar color. It falls within the cool spectrum of colors and evokes a sense of calm and sophistication. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 30.59% red, 27.45% green, and 33.33% blue. This particular combination of red, green and blue light creates a color that is neither overtly vibrant nor dull, making it versatile for various applications. The color is commonly associated with stability, neutrality, and a subtle elegance, making it a popular choice in design contexts where a refined and understated aesthetic is desired.
The color #4E4655, also known as Mortar, presents some accessibility challenges, especially when used for text. Its contrast ratio against a white background is relatively low, which can make it difficult for users with visual impairments to read. To improve accessibility, it's crucial to pair this color with lighter background colors to ensure sufficient contrast. WCAG guidelines recommend a contrast ratio of at least 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text. When using #4E4655 for text, consider increasing the font size or using a bolder font weight to enhance readability. Also, avoid using it for essential interactive elements without proper contrast to ensure usability for all users, including those with color vision deficiencies. Providing alternative color schemes is always a good practice.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
A lighter neutral that provides better contrast against dark text, making it a more accessible choice for backgrounds.
A slightly warmer gray that can add a touch of sophistication while maintaining good readability with appropriate text colors.
A safe alternative as a background color providing enhanced contrast and readability for most fonts and visual elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, Mortar (#4E4655) can be used for website backgrounds to create a subdued, sophisticated feel. It works well with minimalist designs and allows brighter accent colors to pop. However, ensure text contrast is sufficient for readability. Avoid using it for crucial interactive elements without proper contrast to maintain usability. Also, it can be used for creating a background for sections like 'About Us' or 'Contact'.
Interior Design
In interior design, Mortar (#4E4655) can serve as a versatile neutral for walls, flooring, or furniture. It creates a calming, grounded atmosphere and pairs well with natural materials like wood and stone. Accent colors like muted greens, blues, or oranges can add warmth and visual interest to a room using Mortar as a base. Furthermore it can be used in living rooms, bedrooms, and even bathrooms to create a spa-like environment.
Fashion
Mortar (#4E4655) can be incorporated into fashion as a sophisticated neutral for garments or accessories. It can be used for creating a classic and timeless look and is often used for creating garments like coats, jackets, or sweaters. It pairs well with various textures and can be accessorized with metallic or jewel-toned accents.