I also think lining it up making it symmetrical with the post between the two windows will make it look like it's on purpose...

Most like it would require two posts on either side of the island in place of the false chimney.

Thank you both so much. There is a vent-less gas fireplace on the other side of the island which is what they ran the gas for, hence the hollow chimney. We are going to run it to the stove as well so the columns will probably go on the side with the stove. I really like the idea of lining it up with the post between the two windows. We had someone come in who suggested metal pipe but I would think I would need to wrap that in a wood post anyway. What I am also struggling with is if I did a column what material, wood like the cabinets or more like the ceiling?

In the photo from the Bernstein Architecture firm, the column is squared and clad in veneer. I would suggest you match the cabinetry as in that example. Then, when you look back into the kitchen (or at the fireplace) the columns will blend in with the refrigerator wall cabinetry.

Gas lines are typically not very large - you may want to consider 2 slimmer posts positioned on each side of the sink - maybe suspend a couple of shelves across for knick knacks or herbs...this way when you are at the sink you have open space in front of you. This also might not require moving the line at all - the posts can be frmaed out and trimmed however you want............ or come up with an interesting pipe system...... the photo is a bit extreme, but hopefully it gives you an idea of a pretty cool concept...
Good luck!

The heck with a post! Trench the slab to run the line and then just repair the flooring.