A collapsible gate may provide a temporary barrier to prevent movement between rooms, or to prevent access to a staircase, in a home or commercial building. A pre-framed collapsible gate may be secured to and supported by a framing system for installation within a wall, wherein the collapsible gate is adapted for storage within the framing system when not in use. The pre-framed collapsible gate may be vertically retractable and adapted to stow within a framing system installed within a wall and out of sight. The collapsible gate may include a counterbalance to maintain the gate within the framing system when the gate is in the fully open position, and to assist in opening the gate when the gate is lifted from a closed position.