The aim of this paper is to reconsider what apartments in urban area should be by examining the characteristics of morphology and usages in case of the planning of envelope and special composition of 169 apartments developed by private sectors in Osaka urban area before 1970. The analysis revealed that the tendency of flat exterior is due to the usage of grand floor as commercial spaces : the dwelling units are not independent but form a unity,' and indoors-communal spaces show individuality. These apartment planning is expected to be a good guide to urban housing and environment.