#514D43 Hex Color
Online color picker to view shades, tints, color codes, and complementary colors
This dark, dusty shade leans toward a muted yellow, appearing almost gray in certain light. Its serious, moody tone works well for construction projects or industrial-themed backgrounds where a neutral yet grounded aesthetic is needed. Because it conveys a sense of mystery and depth, designers often pick the hex code #514d43 to anchor layouts that require a strong, budget-conscious, or utilitarian feel.
Questions about #514d43
What is #514d43 in RGB, HSL and CMYK?
In RGB, #514d43 is rgb(81, 77, 67), in HSL hsl(43, 9%, 29%) and in CMYK 0%, 5%, 17%, 68%.
Is #514d43 considered a warm or cool neutral?
This color acts as a cool-leaning neutral because of its heavy gray undertones. While it has roots in muted yellow, the desaturation creates a stony, industrial quality that feels much more somber and grounded than a typical warm brown.
What colors pair best with #514d43 for a modern palette?
Pair this color with crisp, clean whites or soft creams to provide necessary contrast against its dark intensity. You can also mix it with dusty blues or muted sage greens to lean into a sophisticated, natural, and earthy design scheme.
Is #514d43 readable on white or black?
#514d43 has a 8.42:1 contrast ratio on white and 2.49:1 on black. WCAG asks for 4.5:1 for body text and 3:1 for large text, so on white it works for body text and on black it is too faint for text. Try other pairs in the contrast checker.