Consistency is key when potty training, so I wouldn't alternate her time in the crate. Nor would I feel bad for leaving her all day in a crate, when Lexi was a puppy I left her in the crate from 8-5. I would come home at lunch for some playtime and to let her out for a pee. I do believe that crate training her help with her potty training as well as contributed to her being a very well rounded dog.
You have a couple options and it's completely up to you on which one you want to pursue, but keep it consistent and I think you'll see an improvement.
If you have a little extra spending cash, you could look into some doggie furniture. I've seen some cute coffee table / dog crate combos, if you got one for a large dog, your baby would have a little more room without having to fit a bulky kennel in your apartment.
Kind of Like: 
Amazon.com: Solid Oak Wood Dog End Table Crate...