Cite cliché about the only intuitive user interface is the nipple; everything else is learned.

Having done my share of UI work, my value system transitioned from esthetics to practicalities. Such as "can you describe it?" Because siloed UI, independent of docs, training and tech supp, is awful.

All validated by usability testing, natch. It's hard to maintain strong opinions UI after users shred your best efforts. Humilitating.

Having said all that... If stock icons work (with target user base), I'm all for using them.

PS I do have one strong opinion: less is more.