insights

Why Color Contrast Matters in Accessible Web Design

Mastering the Basics of Inclusive Web Design

post details
Published
2022-06-15
Post category
News
WCAG & Color Contrast Explained
Written by:
Mikael Brunnberg
Mikael Brunnberg

Color is powerful—but without the right contrast, it can also get in the way.

One of the key pillars of inclusive digital design is accessibility, and at the heart of it sits WCAG—the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines. These aren’t just technical specs for developers. They’re a practical set of rules that help make websites easier to use for everyone, including people with visual impairments like color blindness or low vision.

So, What’s the Deal With Color Contrast?

If you’ve ever squinted at light grey text on a white background, you know the problem. Poor contrast makes content harder to read, navigate, and trust. Which is why WCAG recommends a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and interactive elements like buttons or links.

This isn’t about checking a compliance box. It’s about making sure everyone can engage with your content, regardless of how they see the world. A well-contrasted website is easier to scan, understand, and navigate—for everyone.

The Business Case for Better Contrast

Good contrast isn’t just good practice—it’s also good for SEO.

Search engines favor websites that offer better user experiences, and accessibility plays a growing role in how sites are ranked and indexed. When your content is clear, navigable, and accessible, it doesn’t just help your users—it helps your visibility, too.

In short: Accessibility helps everyone, including your bottom line.

Our Approach at Stormfors

When we design websites—whether in Webflow or through custom-built platforms—we always follow WCAG standards. But we don’t stop at checking contrast ratios. We consider:

  • How your brand colors behave across screen types and lighting conditions
  • Whether key actions are easy to spot, even without perfect vision
  • And how to make inclusive design feel effortless, not bolted on

It’s part of how we help brands create digital experiences that are not only beautiful, but built to last.