Are you still struggling with the bolts? Could you maybe give us more of an idea where they need to go?
I think, as this is a modelling project and it's not gonna do any moving, you can go wild on the modelling. Sure, try to keep your face count low, but don't worry too much about it.
Also, don't worry about building stuff that no-one will see. I didn't build the back bolt on my chair, cuz no-body will ever see it. It's complex enough to keep me busy for a whole day, but who cares?
But ya, a bit more of an idea of what you want the bolts to look like might help.
Good job so far though!.
Oh, and afaik, we're not supposed to build a scene, just an object. That might help too.
Cheers