The trick, he says, is telling the difference. Ahead of Wednesday’s Smithsonian Associates talk, “Modernism in Washington, D.C.: A Complicated Architectural Relationship,” Moeller shared his opinions on a few of the District’s notable examples of modernist architecture.

Hirshhorn

700 Independence Ave. SW

The cylinder that houses the Smithsonian’s contemporary art museum may look like an impenetrable fortress from afar, but as you approach the museum’s plaza, the building becomes much more inviting. “You’ve got the sense of transparency; you can see through to the other side, or look up and see the sky,” Moeller says. Additionally, the doughnut shape of the museum provides a natural flow for visitors.

Moeller’s verdict: Could be worse

J. Edgar Hoover Building

935 Pennsylvania Ave. NW

The hulking mass that is the FBI’s headquarters is worse than an eyesore — the way it hangs over the street is downright creepy, Moeller says. “People don’t like buildings that loom over them.” The moat that cuts off pedestrian traffic to nearby stores doesn’t help. “I’d be happy to push the button to blow up that building myself,” he says. He might get the chance — the FBI is planning to move to a new campus soon.

Moeller’s verdict: Tear it down

Finnish Embassy

3301 Massachusetts Ave. NW

Copper paneling and ivy-covered trellises soften this steel and glass building, which was awarded LEED Platinum certification in 2015. A back porch provides a stunning view of Rock Creek Park, and a series of lights on pillars creates the illusion of a floor extending out into the forest. “I love how the building incorporates into the landscape,” Moeller says. “Plus, it has a sauna.”

Moeller’s verdict: Modernist perfection

Washington Hilton

1919 Connecticut Ave. NW

The curve of this giant concrete building tucks it neatly into the surrounding hill, Moeller says. “The bright white paint job helps create a feeling of lightness, as do the proportions of the windows,” he says. Moeller is also a fan of the Hilton’s ballroom, one of the largest in D.C. “The ceiling and lighting feels very ’60s, which makes it cool in a retro way.”

Moeller’s verdict: Brutalist beauty