Hollow spheres and thin films of Ni(OH)(2) and NiO with unusual form and hierarchical structures have been synthesized by a simple solution chemistry method. First. in situ formed Ni(OH)(2) nanoflakelets organized on the surface of styrene-acrylic acid copolymer (PSA) latex particles to form core/shell structures. Ni(OH)(2) hollow shells built up with nanoflakelets were obtained after subsequent removal of the core latex particles by dissolving PSA latex in toluene; the removal of the cores by calcinations would result in NiO hollow shells, also with hierarchical structures. BET calculation showed the surface area of the NiO hollow spheres was 156 m(2)/g. The nanoflakelets could also organize themselves into thin films with hierarchical structures. It is anticipated that these novel structures will have some unique applications in Ni-based batteries and other potentials.