your situation actually seems a little better than mine, but i'll give my two cents anyway.
i work too far away from home to come back for lunch every day (gas is too expensive!). so, i bought a play pen (the north state superyard xt). it's in the shape of a rectangle and is about 2.5' wide by 4' long by 2' high. it's in my kitchen. he has his crate, toys, food/water, and pee pad. he always goes #1 on the pad, and holds his #2 until i get home. he's home alone (unfortunately) for about 8-9 hours a day (Mon-Fri), but at least he is able to use the bathroom and eat/drink and play.
also, i've read that many yorkies can jump over gates/pens, but Kash has yet to learn how to do that. i hope he never does, but if he does, then i'll buy a cover for the top.
hope you figure something out for your pup!
good luck!