I like the beauty appeal, then you spoil it with that bewhiskered bloke who likes to prove things.
With a bit of exercise, you can totally de-build the pallets, a good supply of 4 x 2s [ oops 2 x 4s for you] and narrow flats.
Sometimes they are plywood strips which makes them much stronger.
Our ones are not treated so watch out for ground contact if you want the building/item to last. A thick coat of paint helps to make them last longer.