Rebuild TechCrunch.com in WordPress without any Extra Plugins

If you’ve ever admired the design of TechCrunch and thought about recreating something similar on your own WordPress site, you’re in the right place. Let’s discover how you can rebuild TechCrunch.com without any extra plugins in under 30 minutes.

Setting the Stage

1. Choose a Theme
   Start with a fresh WordPress site using the 2023 theme. This theme provides a clean slate, making it easier to customize.
2. Pre-Added Posts
   Before diving into the design, add some posts to your site. These will serve as placeholders, helping you visualize the final look.

Creating the Layout

1. Column Layout
   Navigate to the WordPress editor. Choose a two-column layout with a 20-80 split. The 20% will be for navigation, and the 80% for content.
2. Use List View
   In the WordPress editor, switch to the list view. This view gives a clearer structure, especially when working with multiple blocks.

Making the Navigation Sticky

1. Group Content
   In the column meant for navigation, group all the content blocks together.
2. Apply Stickiness
   In the block settings on the right, find the ‘Position’ option. From the dropdown, select ‘Sticky’. This ensures your navigation remains visible even when users scroll down.

Incorporating the Query Loop Block

1. Add the Block
   In the WordPress editor, click on the ‘+’ icon to add a new block. Search for ‘Query Loop’ and add it to your content column.
2. Choose a Layout
   The Query Loop block offers various layouts. Pick one that aligns with TechCrunch’s post structure.
3. Adjust Columns
   Within the block, adjust the featured image and post title columns to mirror TechCrunch’s layout.
4. Aspect Ratio
   With WordPress 6.3, you can set a fixed aspect ratio for your featured images. This ensures consistency in image presentation.

Fine-Tuning the Design

1. Padding
   Navigate to block settings and adjust the padding to give your content some breathing space.
2. Fonts
   Customize the font sizes for post titles, content, and other text elements. Ensure readability while keeping it stylish.
3. Post Categories
4. Add a ‘Categories’ block above your post titles. Customize its color to give it a distinct look, similar to TechCrunch.

Finalizing the Navigation

1. Edit Navigation Block
   Click on your navigation block and select ‘Edit’. This allows you to modify menu items.
2. Rearrange Items
   Drag and drop menu items to match the order on TechCrunch.
3. Styling
   Adjust the appearance, font size, and spacing of the navigation items to make them user-friendly and visually appealing.

Mobile Responsiveness

1. Test on Different Devices
   Preview your site on mobile, tablet, and desktop views. Ensure the layout adjusts seamlessly.
2. Navigation on Mobile
   Ensure that the sticky navigation collapses into a user-friendly mobile menu on smaller screens.

Rebuild TechCrunch.com – Conclusion

By following these detailed steps, you’ve successfully captured the essence of TechCrunch on your WordPress site. It’s a testament to the flexibility and power of WordPress.

Remember: While this tutorial took inspiration from TechCrunch.com, try to bring in your own twist and make your site unique.