ZnNi/NiP compositionally modulated multilayer (CMM) coatings which have a novel three‐dimension (3d) latticed multilayer structure were prepared by dual‐bath technique. The formation of the special 3d latticed structure was investigated. The adhesion and corrosion resistance of the CMM coatings were studied. The results showed that the special 3d latticed multilayer structure, which was different from the structure of traditional CMM coatings, was formed during NiP electroless plating. The 3d latticed structure benefited the adhesion and corrosion resistance of the novel CMM coatings. The barrier effect of the 3d latticed structure is enhanced.