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Mid-century school architectural trends were founded on the principles of Modernism, with an emphasis on pragmatism and functionality. Unlike the two-story brick structures that had been the standard in school construction since the early twentieth century, portable classrooms were designed as a response to overcrowding and were built with the idea that they could be lifted and moved as needed. These portables were one-story and generally linked with an administrative wing. In 1949, several elementary schools in Seattle were damaged by an earthquake and replaced by the use of portables. By 1958, twenty percent of Seattle public school classes were being held in portable classrooms.

Expanding enrollment in Seattle's schools between 1945 and the 1960s (stemming from an influx of defense labor, post-war family growth, and suburban annexation) prompted an increased need for portable classrooms. Laurelhurst Elementary School, which was originally designed by Floyd Narmore, is an example of a school that has historically utilized portable classrooms. Originally built as an annex for Bryant School in 1919, Laurelhurst School opened as a permanent school in 1928. Portable classrooms were added in 1936 to accomodate the incorporation of kindergarten, and in 1946 Laurelhurst officially became a K-6 school. Adequate space for its burgeoning student body remained an issue. It was reported in 1944 that children had to eat lunch in shifts because the lunchroom portable's capacity was limited. In 1950, Laurelhurst commissioned the addition of new buildings. Designed by architect George W. Stoddard, the new buildings exemplified the Modern style and were comprised of six classrooms, a lunchroom, and an auditorium. Portables continued to function as primary classrooms until 1959, when the opening of Sand Point School absorbed some of Laurelhurst's enrollment.