Sorry but Specular does not have this option. I suggest you try a plugin for it or if you will edit the theme files for it, i suggest you use a child theme to keep the changes safe from future theme updates.
Please keep in mind that this is a personal personalization and thus not included in support.
1-Yes, you can add a background color when on hover. Just add this code into your Custom Css box in General Options:
nav .menu > li:hover {
background-color: #4caf50;
}
Change the color to your wish.
2-For this layout, you can use the portfolio page or portfolio Visual composer element. If you use the portfolio page, then all portfolio items will be in one page. You can click on the featured image to go to the single portfolio item.
If you use the portfolio element, you can add it in another normal page, and have other elements as well (mdeia, text, headings etc). See demos here:
-basic portfolio page: https://codeless.co/specular/default/?page_id=614
-Included as element: https://codeless.co/specular/default/?page_id=1145 (OUR LATEST PROJECTS – section)
