How about a center square of pieced blocks then a wide, wide border equal to the width of the center square of the solid cream followed by a colored border. The wider solid border creates a minimalist, elegant look that translates into up-to-date for many younger people who don't like the fussy, busy look of an over-all quilt pattern. It also makes the quilt easier to make since it uses fewer blocks. Now your emphasis is not so much on the choice of block pattern but the arrangement of fabric within the pattern.