Skirtboard issues

Hello, we are currently renovating a set of switchback stairs. Stairs had carpet over subfloor and decorative "end caps" on the two sides facing the living room. We removed everything down to the subfloor and plan on putting carpet back on the treads and landings. On the two sides of the stairs that face the living room the plan is to put up a decorative skirt board and trim.
The debate is what to do about the inside portion of the stairs. First and foremost, do the insides need a skirt board at all? There wasn't one in the first place and since we're putting carpet back on the stairs, I don't think there should be one. However, "That would just look weird" according to the "project manager".

If she's right, and the insides do need a skirt board, are there any tips or tricks that make the process "dummy proof"?

 

IMO it ought to have a skirt board - it also protects the drywall from damage from the carpet install along with any shoe damage.

 

Should the skirtboard be installed, I need some ideas how to terminate it at the bottom of the stairs.

 

Is that rounded corner bead? if so, I'd end the skirt board at the start of the round bead which looks like that would be at the end of the bottom step.

 

Yes, it's rounded. I got the skirt cut and resting in place this weekend. It currently stops about .5" past the nose of the last step and doesn't look as bad as I thought it would so thanks for the advice.

Last question (I think). Should there be a small gap between each tread/riser and the skirt so they can tuck the carpet under or should I just plan to have the carpet butt up against the skirt and leave minimal gaps between the skirt and treads?

 

Normally the skirt board is put in prior to the treads/risers so I'd assume they are used to installing carpet up against the skirt.