Two-stage emulsion polymerization controlled with a reaction calorimeter results in core-shell structured latexes with homogeneous size distribution and architecture. We describe the synthesis of so-called "container particles", consisting of a low-viscosity core with a low glass transition temperature (poly(2-ethylhexyl methacrylate), (PEtHMA)), covered with a thin shell of a cross-linked rubber (poly(n-butyl acrylate), (PBA)). Drying of these dispersions results in nanostructured films. A controlled topography and a network superstructure are obtained, which may be adjusted by the size, composition, and architecture of the original particles. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) in the tapping mode is used to study the final latex films. In addition to topographic information, it is possible to display, with a nanometer resolution, the amplitude and phase of response of the cantilever in each pixel, which images the remainder of the former core and shell by their different mechanical loss behavior. The degree of cross-linking of the second stage polymer (PBA) is found to be the major factor influencing the morphology of the polymer films formed. At lower cross-linking densities, even and surface mechanically homogeneous films are obtained. For highly crosslinked shells, it is shown by a combination of AFM modes that the containers collapse and release the low molecular weight liquid core to form a continuous film containing the single, collapsed units.