Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2013		Mar. 31, 2012		Dec. 31, 2012
Available For Sale Securities Gross Unrealized Gain Loss Calculation [Roll Forward]
Tax increment financing bond, beginning balance	$ (1,898)		$ (2,309)
Unrealized gains on tax increment financing bond	390		287
Tax increment financing bond, ending balance	(1,508)		(2,022)
Cash Flow Hedges Derivative Instruments At Fair Value Net Calculation [Roll Forward]
Cash flow hedges, beginning balance	(10,730)		(3,425)
Unrealized gains on cash flow hedges	280		1,104
Amortization of cash flow hedges	788	[1]	(33)	[1]
Cash flow hedges, ending balance	(9,662)		(2,354)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	(11,170)		(4,376)		(12,628)
Highwoods Realty Limited Partnership [Member]
Available For Sale Securities Gross Unrealized Gain Loss Calculation [Roll Forward]
Tax increment financing bond, beginning balance	(1,898)		(2,309)
Unrealized gains on tax increment financing bond	390		287
Tax increment financing bond, ending balance	(1,508)		(2,022)
Cash Flow Hedges Derivative Instruments At Fair Value Net Calculation [Roll Forward]
Cash flow hedges, beginning balance	(10,730)		(3,425)
Unrealized gains on cash flow hedges	280		1,104
Amortization of cash flow hedges	788	[1]	(33)	[1]
Cash flow hedges, ending balance	(9,662)		(2,354)
Total accumulated other comprehensive loss	$ (11,170)		$ (4,376)		$ (12,628)

[1] Amounts reclassified out of AOCL into contractual interest expense.