How can you determine if a Column is Structural or Decorative??

My daughter just purchased a new-to-her stacked townhouse (condo) with 2 floors each 400sf. We’re helping her spruce it up with lighting and new tiles.

One thing we really want to remove is a random fluted column a few feet inside the entry. No one can tell us if it has a purpose i.e support something. We asked the seller and the property manager and no one knows. The property was built in 1996 so no plans readily available.

It is wood or something and after drilling a hole into it, we determined it is HOLLOW. Meaning it is not hiding a steel or concrete support.

Due to its placement, I strongly believe, back in 1996, they installed this to deliniate the “foyer” from the main room. It is right at the corner of the tiled entry area.

Should we just remove it and hope for the best or can anyone suggest a way to determine for sure.

Note: only a few units have this. Some have a wall.

Thanks.