Mimic new Copyblogger site - Where to start?

[wrxer12]

I would like my new site to have a very similar look and functionality to the new redesigned Copyblogger homepage, posts and functionality.

The main features I would like:
1.) Mobile responsive 1140px width (already bought the eleven40 theme)
2.) Copyblogger article look (as in the separated boxed content from sidebar areas, very slick!) How would Is this possible with eleven40?


I've also thought about the free "old" Copyblogger theme, building it into wider, more modern look with a nice homepage. This may be over my head.
What steps would you recommend to achieve this?
Many thanks SP team!