Real Estate Activity During The Six Months Ended June 30, 2012 (Pro Forma In Connection With Acquisition) (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2011
Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items]
Total revenue	$ 932,251	$ 882,090
Income from continuing operations	155,514	122,989
Net income attributable to Boston Properties, Inc.	$ 185,751	$ 105,242
Basic earnings per share:
Net income per share attributable to Boston Properties, Inc.	$ 1.24	$ 0.73
Diluted earnings per share:
Net income per share attributable to Boston Properties, Inc.	$ 1.24	$ 0.73

The pro forma basic net income per share for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period.

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