What is he interested in? I like panels as a center and then border it any way you want. At 11, you want a quilt that he can grow up with and enjoy at least until he graduates high school.
I made a fishing quilt for my nephew using a panel and 5 borders of different sizes and colors, all having to do with being outside camping or fishing. He loves it because he loves to fish. That quilt will last him a lifetime - he won't take it home because he doesn't want his dog and little brother to mess it up! That makes me think he will take care of it long after I am gone!