Subway Tile. What is it with all the subway tile?

Subway tile is THE I see in the homes I tour each week.  I do love the simplicity of the individual tiles themselves.  I do love the contrasting off-set pattern that the grout makes.  But...they are subway tiles.  Subway stations in New York City do indeed have these tiles but... I wouldn't want them in my kitchen or bathroom.

I realize the decorators and homeowners spec'ing these tiles are not thinking like I am about this.  I just am amused about how the tiles went from the grit of New York to the fine homes and restaurants that I see them in all the time.

What do you think?

This is what I think of when I think of subway tile - probably my home is the last place I would want to connect with this.