The formation of large-area three-dimensionally ordered macroporous (3-DOM) thin films of TiO2 using a novel confined crystallisation method is described. The effects of infiltration method, precursor concentration and calcination rate on 3-DOM film quality were investigated and optimised. The templates were prepared as supported thin films which controls their area, thickness and crystallographic orientation. Confinement of the template for infiltration and crystallisation is the key to the preparation of large area 3-DOM films. This new strategy is proposed as a widely applicable route to the formation of large-area, well-ordered 3-DOM materials. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.