When I asked what new color palettes would refresh our kitchens in 2025, interior designer Lisa Staton answered without hesitation: “Dusty pink appears as the new neutral. It's warm, inviting and all around beautiful.” “
Pink may not be the first color that comes to mind as a neutral, but dusky pink's muted undertones make it stand out. Unlike hot flamingo pink or the bright magenta tones of Barbie Summer, dusky pink offers an earthy, muted tone that makes it extremely versatile. Whether you love a bit of color and maximalism or are interested in a kitchen that shines with warm minimalism, dusty pink is one of the best colors that can blend harmoniously into different design styles, acting as a soft backdrop rather than a bold statement.
After the love and wear and tear our kitchens go through during the holidays when it comes to preparing meals and hosting copious conversations, a little kitchen cabinet color refresh is never a bad idea. Are you ready to paint your cabinets with this warm and inviting new neutral? Read below for everything you need to get the look.
(Image credit: Lisa Staton Design)
Why Dusty Pink?
The preferred color for kitchen cabinets has long been variations of dark brown, natural beige and, more recently, sage green. However, color ideas for the kitchen are changing, and interior designer and founder of Nina's Home Designs, Nina Lichtenstein, says: “Neutral tones in the kitchen are evolving and 2025 will be the year of the dusky pink.”
Offering a fresh twist on traditional neutrals like white, gray or beige, dusty pink's soft, muted hues add warmth and personality to a room without overwhelming it. Nina says: “Its unique blend of subtlety and character makes it the first choice for designers seeking a balance of timeless elegance and contemporary charm.”
Nina explains that its “warmth adds coziness to the kitchen, while its subtle pop of color adds richness and sophistication” – making it perfect for homeowners who want something that goes beyond the traditional neutrals, but is still understated enough to outlast trends .
If you're ready to embrace this kitchen trend, Nina says, “Look for shades like Farrow & Ball's Setting Plaster or Benjamin Moore's Rosy Tan” (both listed below). These shades offer the perfect balance of softness and warmth, with just enough depth to look modern.
Whether you're looking to coat your cabinets, walls, or even an accent island in the new “it” shade, dusty pink is proven to create an effortlessly chic foundation for your kitchen.
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Size: 100 ml sample
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Size: A quart
So the cabinet color is chosen and is now ready to be painted, but what do you pair with that polished pink? Lisa Staton says, “Clean marble, brass hardware, and layered antique accessories and plants” would be the perfect way to style a calming dusty pink cabinet. Lisa also combined another favorite color prediction for 2025 – a deep, rich plum purple – in her kitchen design shown in the image below.
“Deep inky plum is one of our favorites these days. It’s earthy and grounding,” says Lisa. The perfect counterpart to create a striking visual contrast alongside the softness of pale pink.
(Image credit: Lisa Staton Design)
As for other color combinations, Nina suggests dusty pink works well when paired with complementary colors and textures:
— Cool shades of gray: Create a modern, balanced look with soft gray accents on countertops, backsplashes or appliances.
— Rich green: Deep forest green or sage provide a bold, nature-inspired contrast that feels fresh and organic. Natural sage green kitchen ideas can be spiced up with a touch of pink on the cabinets.
— Warm woods: Incorporate light oak or walnut to highlight the warm undertones of the pink while keeping the space grounded.
— Brass or gold fittings: Enhance the look with metallic finishes that add warmth and a bit of glamour.
— Marble or Quartzite: For countertops or backsplashes, choose gently grained stones in white, gray or beige to complement the understated elegance of dusty pink.
For those who like to dabble in muted pink, placing accent pieces around the kitchen is another stylish way to incorporate neutrality.
Shop dusty pink kitchen decor
Rustic ceramic farmhouse vase by Luka
Price: $25.99
Crowd: Set of three
Price: $15.68, Was: $30
Description: Foods and recipes to nourish your skin from the inside out: a cookbook
Double sided terry kitchen towel
Price: $3
Color: terracotta
Dusty pink is the neutral color I never knew I needed in my kitchen. Whatever you choose to paint with this playful pop of color, your kitchen cabinets will thank you.