How was this simple site built?

Which website are you referring to?

Sorry, I forgot to add the link. It’s there now.

It looks to me like all of that can be done with free stuff, and it would cost you nothing at all to give it a try over at https://wordpress.com/.

All components like search widget, social media, video embed, subscribe via email, archive etc are available for free. You can find plugins to help you do that.

However, the look and feel is very unique. You need to have knowledge in creating your own template. If not, you can find a graphic designer and a developer to help you along the way.

Thanks for the replies. I’m not looking to duplicate the look and feel of that site. I’m only interested in the architecture/layout. I don’t even need a search widget — just a jpeg header at top, nav on one side, text in the main area. Like this.

I hired a designer to do that, but she can’t figure out how to do it, so I’m going to cut my losses with her and look elsewhere. I’m not able to do this myself.

Thanks again.