You'll have to see if it's load bearing. If it's not you can remove it no problem, but if it is it will have to stay or be replaced with something else.

Yes. It may be tying the exterior wall to the interior part of the house.

Oh god I completely missed it being open at top my bad. It could still be vital to the structure of the home, house electrical or duct work, or something else. Just have a pro come out and look at it (or punch a hole in it and see if there's anything in there or if it's hollow). Don't forget too that if you remove it chances are you will have to redo the flooring because tile won't be under those pillars. n

We hate our columns between our living and dining room as well… do you have any after pics?

I love it!!!! Your style is similar to what we are going for….

This is our current formal living room- I hate all the beige and the columns… 🤣