Not to sound old and frumpy, but...
That's modeling blasphemy.
There is some measure of pride inherent in knowing you can build a mesh that is the best you can possibly make it, and a minimum expenditure. Working on the principle that the ideal mesh was one that described exactly what you want in as few polygons as possible. It's a recogniztion of economy and reason. Not using more than you need to just because you can.
I used to operate under that principle, but I've found that as a modeler, it is far more satisfying, and better for gamers, to build a mesh that is both beautiful and economical.
For me, poly count is a matter of pride. It is a measure of my competency, and in my opinion, a measure of the competency of others, as well.