We did use some Guerrilla Glue on the wooden pegs(and let it sit for 2 hours). Total work time was 1.5 hours. 
All the holes lined up okay. It looks pretty good, but was a bit darker than we wanted. 
It feel very solid and safe to sit down on. I'm a big guy. 195 pounds.  
We have our 'Love Bench' in the master bedroom, for sitting down when putting on socks and shoes etc.
The arms are very solid hand-holds when sitting down and standing up.  
It replaces two 40 year old (very cheap) chairs that had become unsafe for seniors.  
The compact size of this bench makes it a perfect fit for our smallish master bedroom.  
The ventilated storage area is real plus, since it lowers the clutter level in the room.