Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
		Mar. 31, 2016	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2015
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income or Loss [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance		$ (14,114)	$ (9,304)	$ (9,304)
Effective portion of interest rate contracts		(58,646)	(3,533)
Amortization of interest rate contracts	[1],[2]	627	627
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		15,427	303
Ending Balance		(56,706)	(11,907)	(14,114)
Boston Properties Limited Partnership
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income or Loss [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance		(18,337)	(12,973)	(12,973)
Effective portion of interest rate contracts		(58,646)	(3,533)
Amortization of interest rate contracts	[2],[3]	627	627
Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		10,526
Ending Balance		$ (65,830)	$ (15,879)	$ (18,337)

[1] Amounts reclassified from comprehensive income primarily to interest expense within the Boston Properties, Inc.’s Consolidated Statements of Operations.

[2] Consists of amounts from previous interest rate hedging programs entered into prior to 2015.

[3] Amounts reclassified from comprehensive income primarily to interest expense within the Boston Properties Limited Partnership's Consolidated Statements of Operations.