Economy Wyoming

Wyoming-Based Company Crafts Bespoke Security Gates for High-Profile Clients

Wyoming-Based Company Crafts Bespoke Security Gates for High-Profile Clients
Alex Nichols demonstrates an automatic gate at Picasso Gate in Cheyenne (Renee Jean, Cowboy State Daily)
  • PublishedApril 21, 2025

Tucked away in the quiet city of Cheyenne, a family-run business is quietly forging some of the toughest and most artistic security gates in the country—many for celebrities whose names are better known in Hollywood than the high plains of Wyoming, Cowboy State Daily reports.

Picasso Gate, co-owned by father-son duo Brent and Alex Nichols, may not advertise or carry the weight of a big brand, but their craftsmanship speaks for itself. From estates owned by stars like Tom Cruise and Kevin Costner to presidential properties and private vineyards, their custom-built steel gates have become the first line of defense—and design—for some of the most private homes in America.

The turning point came when actor Michael Douglas was in the market for a security gate for his ranch in Aspen. Despite some initial hesitation from his team about working with a small Wyoming company, Picasso Gate’s reputation and Brent Nichols’ expertise ultimately won them over.

“They told me, ‘You have more knowledge than anybody else we interviewed,'” Brent said.

His credentials, which include service on the Underwriters Laboratories Board for Gate Safety and familiarity with ASTM standards, tipped the scales in his favor.

That project led to others—many sealed under non-disclosure agreements—but reportedly involving other A-listers like Cruise and Costner. The company also recently completed a project for the Wyoming Governor’s Mansion and has previously provided service for the White House.

Picasso Gate prides itself on quality, integrity, and craftsmanship over volume. Brent originally intended to build no more than 10 to 15 gates per year, valuing quality time outdoors and with family. But demand has steadily increased through word-of-mouth—particularly within celebrity circles.

The company has turned down high-profile work when it conflicted with existing commitments.

“Even when it was Madonna,” Brent said, “we wouldn’t jump the line for anyone.”

That same ethic was behind their decision to pass on a White House gate project due to scheduling issues.

“We don’t cut corners,” said Alex. “If we’re going to do it, we’re going to do it right.”

Each gate made by Picasso is a unique combination of durability and design. Constructed from solid steel, the gates often weigh thousands—and sometimes tens of thousands—of pounds. One recent project tipped the scales at 36,000 pounds.

But functionality doesn’t come at the cost of aesthetics. Alex, trained in blacksmithing, creates gates that are equal parts sculpture and security system. Past designs have included everything from realistic tree branches to stylized dragons and custom logos.

These artistic touches are made possible by extensive experience, careful metalwork, and advanced software systems written in-house for customized gate automation.

Though Picasso Gate has completed installations from California to Virginia, the Nichols family remains firmly rooted in Wyoming. Brent moved to the state for its open spaces and hunting opportunities, while Alex, a Cheyenne native, sees it as the perfect hub for their business.

“From Cheyenne, we can reach Jackson, Aspen, and Salt Lake City easily,” Alex said. “It’s the ideal location, and it’s home.”

Joe Yans

Joe Yans is a 25-year-old journalist and interviewer based in Cheyenne, Wyoming. As a local news correspondent and an opinion section interviewer for Wyoming Star, Joe has covered a wide range of critical topics, including the Israel-Palestine war, the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the 2024 U.S. presidential election, and the 2025 LA wildfires. Beyond reporting, Joe has conducted in-depth interviews with prominent scholars from top US and international universities, bringing expert perspectives to complex global and domestic issues.