Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Sep. 30, 2012	Sep. 30, 2011	Dec. 31, 2011
Available For Sale Securities Gross Unrealized Gain Loss Calculation [Roll Forward]
Tax increment financing bond, beginning balance			$ (2,309)	$ (2,543)
Unrealized gains/(losses) on tax increment financing bond	(101)	600	482	129
Tax increment financing bond, ending balance	(1,827)	(2,414)	(1,827)	(2,414)
Cash Flow Hedges Derivative Instruments At Fair Value Net Calculation [Roll Forward]
Cash flow hedges, beginning balance			(3,425)	(1,105)
Unrealized losses on cash flow hedges	(3,337)	0	(10,424)	0
Amortization of cash flow hedges	791	(30)	2,250	(87)
Cash flow hedges, ending balance	(11,599)	(1,192)	(11,599)	(1,192)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	(13,426)	(3,606)	(13,426)	(3,606)	(5,734)
Highwoods Realty Limited Partnership [Member]
Available For Sale Securities Gross Unrealized Gain Loss Calculation [Roll Forward]
Tax increment financing bond, beginning balance			(2,309)	(2,543)
Unrealized gains/(losses) on tax increment financing bond	(101)	600	482	129
Tax increment financing bond, ending balance	(1,827)	(2,414)	(1,827)	(2,414)
Cash Flow Hedges Derivative Instruments At Fair Value Net Calculation [Roll Forward]
Cash flow hedges, beginning balance			(3,425)	(1,105)
Unrealized losses on cash flow hedges	(3,337)	0	(10,424)	0
Amortization of cash flow hedges	791	(30)	2,250	(87)
Cash flow hedges, ending balance	(11,599)	(1,192)	(11,599)	(1,192)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	$ (13,426)	$ (3,606)	$ (13,426)	$ (3,606)	$ (5,734)