CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 114,891	$ 97,463	$ 3,863
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in unrealized gain (loss) on interest rate swaps, net	(2,343)	(4,035)	10,663
Other comprehensive income (loss)	(2,343)	(4,035)	10,663
Comprehensive income	112,548	93,428	14,526
Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(3,188)	(4,359)	(2,233)
Comprehensive income attributable to Lexington Realty Trust shareholders	$ 109,360	$ 89,069	$ 12,293