This wall separates the stool area from the rest of the bathroom. It was only a half-wall with turned balusters "filling" the open space. Probably felt like you were in jail when doing your business.

This will get framed in and sheeted with drywall and a light/fan unit will be installed in the ceiling. The big post is potentially load bearing as the bottom end is sitting right on top of one of the floor trusses. I'll know for sure when I open the lid to install lights etc.