Pole placement options...

Ok, so I've ruled out my high ceiling bc it's plaster and very old, and my better half had suggested we use the entry way between 2 rooms (8" high and 10" across) but the wood is almost 2" shorter than the top base... He is wondering if we could place a board against this support (so as to have full contact with something) and still trust the pole will be stable? Otherwise, I may have to wait to install until next YEAR... Argghhh! I also have a basement but it is wet, cold and creepy... Final option is to put it in my studio for grad students but risk that the school would take away my space since "exercise equipment" is against the rules... Any thoughts?