Lighthouse
A subtle, airy alternative to white
Lighthouse is an extremely pale, neutral grey that acts as a softer alternative to pure white. Because of its high lightness, it pairs perfectly with black typography for high-contrast accessibility in interface design. The hex code for Lighthouse is #f3f4f4. Designers often use this shade for expansive backgrounds where a clean, minimal look is required without the harshness of a stark white.
About Lighthouse
A breath of grey in fresh paper
What does lighthouse mean?
This near-white grey commonly reads as neutrality, cleanliness, and restraint. Almost white but not quite, it feels weightless and bleached, like light softened by fog.
Where you see lighthouse
- fresh printer paper
- sea fog
- unpainted drywall
- linen sheets hung to dry
- a swan's feathers at dusk
- foam on a receding wave
What it works for
Use it as a background that carries bolder colors, or as a softer alternative to pure white in interfaces, print, and interiors.
What colors go with lighthouse?
Charcoal #36454fThe deep grey anchors this pale shade without stealing its light.Dusty Rose #b56f76A muted pink warms the grey cast while staying soft and faded.Slate Blue #6a5acdThe cool undertones line up, giving a calm, weathered pairing.Moss #009051Earthy green shows its delicacy and keeps the combination grounded.Terracotta #e2725bWarm baked clay contrasts its cool neutrality with quiet balance.
Questions about Lighthouse
What is the hex code for Lighthouse?
Lighthouse is #f3f4f4. In RGB that is rgb(243, 244, 244), in HSL hsl(180, 4%, 95%) and in CMYK 0%, 0%, 0%, 4%.
When should I choose Lighthouse over pure white?
Use Lighthouse #f3f4f4 when you want to reduce screen glare or soften the overall interface feel without sacrificing a clean, minimalist aesthetic. It provides a subtle layer of depth that makes white interface elements or buttons pop more effectively against the backdrop.
Is Lighthouse readable on white or black?
Lighthouse has a 1.10:1 contrast ratio on white and 19.05:1 on black. WCAG asks for 4.5:1 for body text and 3:1 for large text, so on white it is too faint for text and on black it works for body text. Try other pairs in the contrast checker.