Equity - Changes in Company's Ownership Interests (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014	Sep. 30, 2015	Sep. 30, 2014
Equity [Line Items]
Net income attributable to Lexington Realty Trust shareholders	$ (5,984)	$ 40,405	$ 76,853	$ 55,741
Decrease in additional paid-in-capital for redemption of noncontrolling OP units			0	(950)
Change from net income attributable to shareholders and transfers from noncontrolling interests			76,853	54,791
Accumulated Distributions in Excess of Net Income [Member]
Equity [Line Items]
Net income attributable to Lexington Realty Trust shareholders			$ 76,853	$ 55,741