Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Consolidated Statement Of Comprehensive Income Loss
Net income (loss)	$ 252,319	$ (185,344)	$ (576,437)
Other comprehensive income:
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative financial instruments	5,453	(6,964)	17,024
Loss on interest rate swaps no longer designated as cash flow hedges	5,038
Amortization of unrealized gains and losses on securities	(908)	(1,489)	(1,031)
Amortization of deferred gains and losses on settlement of swaps	(109)	(98)	(95)
Other-than-temporary impairments of securities related to fair value adjustments in excess of expected credit losses, net of amortization	(326)	(6,576)	(11,781)
Other comprehensive income (loss)	9,148	(15,127)	4,117
Comprehensive income (loss)	261,467	(200,471)	(572,320)
Add: Comprehensive loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	6,015
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Capital Trust, Inc.	$ 267,482	$ (200,471)	$ (572,320)

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