Nanomaterials exhibit special optical, magnetic, acoustic, electric, catalytic properties as compared with the traditional bulk materials. It is still a challenge to achieve controllable synthesis and largescale applications of nanomaterials with various structures. This review introduces the controllable synthesis and applications of nanomaterials. The latest work on nanomaterials of Shanghai Univeristy are highlighted, which around crystal phase controlled, template assisted and physical field induced synthesis strategies, and applications in environmental catalysis, energy and optics. In addition, this review points out that research on nanomaterials is insufficient, and suggests some directions of further development.