If I had to guess i would say
Quoted from ForceFlow:Probably.
Notice how they are directly down the center of the house in a wide open space.
What kind of beams can you see in the ceiling/attic? Regular wood beams or engineered beams? (engineered beams look like steel I-beams you typically see in large multi-story commercial buildings, but in this case, they're made of wood).
I'm not in construction by trade, but I've been around it enough to get a general sense of some things, so this is my best guess.
I don't think any designer or architect would purposefully stick columns out in the middle of nowhere unless they had to be there. A lot of newer homes tend to favor more of an open floor plan, but the tradeoff is fewer places you can hide load bearing supports. However, I'd guess those columns are mostly hollow and there's really just a 4x4 or maybe a 6x6 in the center of each column. Since the column is so large, and given that there's a wall plate and likely a gang box on one column, I'd bet on a 6x6.
Worst case scenario, you might be able to shave off about 4-6" by removing the outer covering of the columns & re-frame it right up against the inner support post.
I've heard of situations where you *might* be able to get rid of a supporting wall/post by using a long spanning steel beam. Although, I don't know enough about the specifics of that to be able to say if it's possible in this situation.
In any case, if you drill a large enough hole somewhere in the column, that should be able to give you a look inside. If it's load supporting, you will probably see something in the center. If you only see framing for the shell of the column, then there's a good chance that it might not be load bearing. But, I'd highly recommend talking to a professional to be absolutely sure.
I am sure it is a 6X6 in there especially if it is load-bearing.
Can you get into the attic and see what is above it? If there is a large truss above it then you are screwed. If not, you are probably safe.