Thanks for your input, I suggested doing that. However, the problem is the column is thicker than the wall and I was told that it cannot be aligned with the wall. It is aligned with the stairs from the inside but from the wall side it is much thicker. Which is why I am stumped as to what to do.

Just align it with the stair wall ... the column can "stick out" from that wall a bit. You can add molding to make it look intentional.

Is a railing necessary since you have one on the other side?

Idea to resolve safety issue as well the bottom of stair problem

yes railing is necessary as it is the continuation of upstairs So it will look consistent. The pictures that you sent are very nice and I think they'd be a great solution, thanks!

As Sammi J said Continue stair wall into column then run handrail and base rail into column where it needs to be. Then remove the current moulding on the stair string as I assume you are having a skirting board fitted. This will then run continually from the stair string around the column and return along the stair wall on the room side.