Derivative and Hedging Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands		12 Months Ended
		Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Beginning Balance		$ (14,114)	$ (9,304)	$ (11,556)
Effective portion of interest rate contracts		(47,144)	(10,302)	0
Amortization of interest rate contracts	[1]	3,751	2,510	2,508
Other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests		5,256	2,982	(256)
Ending Balance		(52,251)	(14,114)	(9,304)
Boston Properties Limited Partnership
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosures [Line Items]
Beginning Balance		(18,337)	(12,973)	(15,481)
Effective portion of interest rate contracts		(47,144)	(10,302)	0
Amortization of interest rate contracts	[2]	3,751	2,510	2,508
Other comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests in property partnership		877	2,428
Ending Balance		$ (60,853)	$ (18,337)	$ (12,973)

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

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