What Color is Ash grey
Ash grey is a muted, pale shade that bridges the gap between silver and green. It evokes a sense of quietude and refinement, acting as a sophisticated neutral in contemporary palettes.
What color is opposite Ash grey?
The opposite color to Ash grey is Pink Swan (#bdb2ba).
Additional Information
- Color Family: Gray
- Temperature: Warm
- Associated Season: Spring
- Complementary Color: #BDB2BA
- Brightness: 185/255
- Saturation: 6%
Colors That Pair Well With Ash grey
Complementary
Pair with Pink Swan for a harmonious, balanced look. Great for backgrounds and accents.
High Contrast
Use Gravel for maximum readability. Ideal for text or critical UI elements.
Harmonious Depth
Use lighter and darker shades for a sophisticated, cohesive design. Great for backgrounds, text, and subtle accents.
Color Variations
Tints (add white)
Tones (add grey)
Ash grey History
The first recorded use of ash grey as a color name in English dates back to 1374. Historically, the pigment was derived from the literal residue of wood combustion, consisting primarily of calcium carbonate and potash. In the Middle Ages, this shade was deeply associated with the hearth, representing the domestic life and survival of the common people.
During the 19th-century Industrial Revolution, the color took on a new meaning as it mirrored the soot and smoke of urban expansion. Realist painters used these desaturated tones to depict the gritty reality of city life. In modern history, it transitioned from a color of labor to one of elegance, favored by high-end architects for its ability to mimic natural stone.
Meaning & Psychology
Ash grey communicates a feeling of stability and composure. Unlike stark charcoal, its slight green undertone provides a soft serenity that reduces visual fatigue, making it an ideal choice for environments requiring deep focus. It is often perceived as more approachable than traditional grey, offering a gentle psychological buffer against chaos.
Culturally, the color is often linked to wisdom and the natural aging process. It represents the transition from fire to earth, suggesting a philosophical detachment that values substance over flashiness. In branding, it is used to signal reliability and a timeless aesthetic that transcends fleeting trends.
In Nature
In the natural world, ash grey is most prominently seen in the lichen that clings to ancient trees and the weathered basalt found in volcanic regions. It appears in the soft, velvet-like texture of sage leaves and the protective, camouflaged wings of the peppered moth.
How To Use Ash grey
In senior-level design, ash grey is a primary tool for achieving minimalism. It offers superior readability when used as a background for dark charcoal text, providing a softer alternative to high-contrast white that prevents eye strain in digital interfaces. It is a 'workhorse' color that allows more vibrant accents to pop without competing for attention.
When applying this color to interiors, it should be paired with organic materials like oak or linen to highlight its metallic and earthy qualities. Designers must be mindful of accessibility; while it is a beautiful mid-tone, it requires careful contrast management when used for functional elements like buttons or icons to ensure they remain visible to all users.
Related Words
Curated Palettes
Nordic Fog
A cool, atmospheric palette that emphasizes clean lines and natural textures.
Volcanic Earth
Warm, grounded tones that contrast the cool ash against fire-born hues.
Ethereal Sage
A soft, botanical-inspired collection for a calming and sophisticated atmosphere.
Color Conversions
Color Blindness Simulation
CSS Snippets
color: #B2BEB5;
color: rgb(178, 190, 181);
background-color: #B2BEB5;
border: 3px solid #B2BEB5;
box-shadow: 0 4px 12px #B2BEB566;
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #B2BEB5 0%, #ffffff 100%);
Shop Premium Products in Ash grey
This isn't just a mockup. We'll custom make high-quality home decor in this exact shade, just for you.
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Product Details
Add a touch of luxury to your home with our premium Eco Velvet cushions. Soft to the touch, these cushions are perfect for adding comfort and style to any room.
- Material: Soft Eco Velvet.
- Feel: Velvety soft finish.
- Print: Double-sided, all-over vibrant color using water-based inks.
- Care: Machine washable at 30°C.
- Construction: Handmade to order with a concealed zipper.
Eco Credentials
We believe in sustainable style. Our cushions are crafted with the planet in mind.
- Made to Order: Produced only when you order, eliminating overproduction and waste.
- Water-Based Inks: Printed using neo-pigment, water-based inks that are non-hazardous, toxin-free, and vegan-friendly.
- Local Fulfilment: Produced locally where possible to reduce carbon emissions from transport.
- Vegan Friendly: No animal products are used in the production of these cushions.
What Goes With Ash grey?
Explore color palettes containing Ash grey and discover harmonious combinations for your designs.
Accessibility
Contrast with Black and White
Contrast with Black
UI Examples
"Color is a power which directly influences the soul."
Contrast Ratio
Contrast with White
UI Examples
"Color is a power which directly influences the soul."
Contrast Ratio
Closest Color Matches
Similar Colors
View all Gray colors →Colors with similar hex values and appearance to Ash grey
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hex code for Ash grey?
What colors go with Ash grey?
Is Ash grey accessible for text?
How do I use Ash grey in CSS?
You can use Ash grey in CSS with its hex code. Here is an example class:
.ash-grey {
background-color: #B2BEB5;
color: #FFFFFF;
}For more snippets including gradients, see the CSS snippets section.