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Schedule III (Details) (USD $)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2014
Dec. 31, 2013
Dec. 31, 2012
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation $ 1,033,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation $ 985,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation $ 876,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
Real estate assets, net, held for sale 0hiw_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciationAssetsHeldForSale 0hiw_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciationAssetsHeldForSale 0hiw_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciationAssetsHeldForSale
Total accumulated depreciation 1,033,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAccumulatedDepreciation 985,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAccumulatedDepreciation 876,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAccumulatedDepreciation
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,309,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 4,252,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 3,547,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
Development in process exclusive of land included in Schedule III 205,971,000us-gaap_DevelopmentInProcess 44,621,000us-gaap_DevelopmentInProcess 21,198,000us-gaap_DevelopmentInProcess
Real estate assets, net, held for sale (995,000)hiw_ReclassRelatedToRealEstateHeldForSale 0hiw_ReclassRelatedToRealEstateHeldForSale 0hiw_ReclassRelatedToRealEstateHeldForSale
Total real estate assets 4,514,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAtCost 4,297,466,000us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAtCost 3,568,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateInvestmentPropertyAtCost
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,309,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 4,252,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 3,547,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,033,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 985,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 876,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, beginning balance 4,252,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 3,547,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 3,221,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
Acquisitions, development and improvements 282,105,000hiw_RealEstateAcquisitionsDevelopmentAndImprovements 735,183,000hiw_RealEstateAcquisitionsDevelopmentAndImprovements 366,556,000hiw_RealEstateAcquisitionsDevelopmentAndImprovements
Cost of real estate sold and retired (225,414,000)us-gaap_RealEstateCostOfRealEstateSold (30,034,000)us-gaap_RealEstateCostOfRealEstateSold (40,851,000)us-gaap_RealEstateCostOfRealEstateSold
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,309,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 4,252,845,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue 3,547,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, beginning balance 985,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 876,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 799,094,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
Depreciation expense 154,448,000us-gaap_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateAccumulatedDepreciationDepreciationExpense 138,163,000us-gaap_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateAccumulatedDepreciationDepreciationExpense 118,223,000us-gaap_SECScheduleIIIRealEstateAccumulatedDepreciationDepreciationExpense
Real estate sold and retired (106,586,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciationRealEstateSold (29,365,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciationRealEstateSold (40,871,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciationRealEstateSold
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,033,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 985,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation 876,446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
Atlanta, GA - 1700 Century Circle [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 2,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 314,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,796,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1700CenturyCircleMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 1700 Century Circle [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 1700 Century Circle [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 1800 Century Boulevard [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 21,294,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 44,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,444,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 29,081,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 13,712,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,444,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 42,793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 44,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 21,294,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 44,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 21,294,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1800CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 1800 Century Boulevard [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 1800 Century Boulevard [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 1825 Century Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,596,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 15,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 303,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 14,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,167,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 14,403,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 15,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,596,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 15,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,596,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1825CenturyCenterMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 1825 Century Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 1825 Century Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 1875 Century Boulevard [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,542,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,199,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,924,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,275,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 10,199,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,199,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,542,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,199,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,542,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1875CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 1875 Century Boulevard [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 1875 Century Boulevard [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 1900 Century Boulevard [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,615,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,744,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 714,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,615,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,615,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa1900CenturyBoulevardMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 1900 Century Boulevard [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 1900 Century Boulevard [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2200 Century Parkway [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,381,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 18,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 14,432,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,231,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 18,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 18,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,381,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 18,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 8,381,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2200CenturyParkwayMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 2200 Century Parkway [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2200 Century Parkway [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2400 Century Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 13,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 406,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 12,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 406,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 12,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 13,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 13,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2400CenturyCenterMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 2400 Century Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2400 Century Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2500 Century Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 14,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 328,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 14,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 14,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 14,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 14,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2500CenturyCenterMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 2500 Century Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2500 Century Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2500/2635 Parking Garage [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,431,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 6,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 6,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 6,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,431,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 6,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,431,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa25002635ParkingGarageMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 2500/2635 Parking Garage [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2500/2635 Parking Garage [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2600 Century Parkway [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 14,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 10,679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,227,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 14,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 14,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 14,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 7,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2600CenturyParkwayMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 2600 Century Parkway [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2600 Century Parkway [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2635 Century Parkway [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 10,887,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 25,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 21,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,430,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 25,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 25,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 10,887,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 25,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 10,887,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2635CenturyParkwayMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 2635 Century Parkway [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2635 Century Parkway [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2800 Century Parkway [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 11,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 33,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 20,449,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 12,768,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 33,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 33,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 11,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 33,217,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 11,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa2800CenturyParkwayMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 2800 Century Parkway [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 2800 Century Parkway [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 50 Glenlake [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 9,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 25,896,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 20,006,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 23,396,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 25,896,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 9,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 25,896,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 9,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGa50GlenlakeMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 50 Glenlake [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 50 Glenlake [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - Bluegrass Valley Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,416,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 19,711,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (17,295,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,416,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,416,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,416,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaBluegrassValleyLandMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Century Plaza I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 13,198,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 13,198,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 13,198,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Century Plaza I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - Century Plaza I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - Century Plaza II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,924,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 10,657,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaCenturyPlazaIiMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Century Plaza II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - Century Plaza II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - Federal Aviation Administration [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 17,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,196,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 1,416,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 15,171,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 15,171,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 17,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 17,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,421,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaFaaAtTradeportMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Federal Aviation Administration [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - Federal Aviation Administration [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - Henry County Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,023,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 13,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,023,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,023,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,023,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHenryCountyLandMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Highwoods Center I at Tradeport [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,597,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 139,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 446,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,597,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,597,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 799,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIAtTradeportMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Highwoods Center I at Tradeport [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - Highwoods Center I at Tradeport [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - Highwoods Center III at Tradeport [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 945,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 409,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 130,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,775,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,775,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 945,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,314,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 945,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsCenterIiiAtTradeportMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Highwoods Center III at Tradeport [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - Highwoods Center III at Tradeport [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - Highwoods Riverpoint IV [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 0us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,037,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (1,037,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 0us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaHighwoodsRiverpointIvMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Highwoods Riverpoint IV [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - Highwoods Riverpoint IV [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 5405 Windward Parkway [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 13,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 50,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 32,111,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 15,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 47,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 50,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 13,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 50,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 13,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaNortelMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 5405 Windward Parkway [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 5405 Windward Parkway [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - River Point Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 327,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 13,712,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 7,250,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 3,913,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 11,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 13,712,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 327,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 13,712,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 327,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverPointLandMember
   
Atlanta, GA - River Point Land [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - River Point Land [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - Riverwood 100 [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 79,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 5,785,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 64,913,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (29,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 8,743,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 5,756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 73,656,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 79,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 79,412,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 8,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaRiverwood100Member
   
Atlanta, GA - Riverwood 100 [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - Riverwood 100 [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - South Park Residential Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 50,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 7,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 57,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkResidentialLandMember
   
Atlanta, GA - South Park Site Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 754,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaSouthParkSiteLandMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Tradeport Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,119,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 5,243,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (4,124,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,119,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,119,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,119,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTradeportLandMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Two Point Royal [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 19,357,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 14,964,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 17,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 19,357,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 19,357,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 7,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoPointRoyalMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Two Point Royal [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - Two Point Royal [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - Two Alliance Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 11,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 138,285,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 9,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 125,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 9,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 128,706,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 138,285,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 11,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 138,285,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 11,540,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGaTwoAllianceCenterMember
   
Atlanta, GA - Two Alliance Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - Two Alliance Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - One Alliance Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 145,054,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 14,775,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 123,071,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 7,208,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 14,775,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 130,279,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 145,054,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 145,054,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 6,888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGAOneAllianceCenterMember
   
Atlanta, GA - One Alliance Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - One Alliance Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 10 Glenlake North [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 32,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 5,349,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 26,334,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 624,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 5,349,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 26,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 32,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 32,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeNorthMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 10 Glenlake North [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 10 Glenlake North [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Atlanta, GA - 10 Glenlake South [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 29,426,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 5,103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 22,811,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 5,103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 24,323,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 29,426,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 29,426,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,780,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_AtlantaGA10GlenlakeSouthMember
   
Atlanta, GA - 10 Glenlake South [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Atlanta, GA - 10 Glenlake South [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Kansas City, MO - Country Club Plaza [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 114,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 286,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 14,286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 146,879,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (473,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 126,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 13,813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 273,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 286,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 114,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 286,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 114,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoCountryClubPlazaMember
   
Kansas City, MO - Country Club Plaza [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Kansas City, MO - Country Club Plaza [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Kansas City, MO - Land - Hotel Land - Valencia [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 111,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,089,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoLandHotelLandValenciaMember
   
Kansas City, MO - Park Plaza Building [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,629,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 9,245,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,629,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,629,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,480,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoParkPlazaMember
   
Kansas City, MO - Park Plaza Building [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Kansas City, MO - Park Plaza Building [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Kansas City, MO - Two Emmanuel Cleaver Boulevard [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,565,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 984,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,581,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,565,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,565,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,639,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoTwoBrushCreekMember
   
Kansas City, MO - Two Emmanuel Cleaver Boulevard [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Kansas City, MO - Two Emmanuel Cleaver Boulevard [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Kansas City, MO - Valencia Place Office [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 16,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 41,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 970,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 38,738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 38,738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 41,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 16,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 41,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 16,277,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_KansasCityMoValenciaPlaceOfficeMember
   
Kansas City, MO - Valencia Place Office [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Kansas City, MO - Valencia Place Office [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - 3400 Players Club Parkway [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,239,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,094,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 207,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,882,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,882,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,094,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,239,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,094,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,239,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTn3400PlayersClubParkwayMember
   
Memphis, TN - 3400 Players Club Parkway [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - 3400 Players Club Parkway [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Triad Centre I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 17,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,340,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 11,385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (849,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,496,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,491,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 15,881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 17,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 17,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIMember
   
Memphis, TN - Triad Centre I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Triad Centre I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Triad Centre II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 14,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,980,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (404,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,481,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 13,158,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 14,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 14,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNTriadCentreIIMember
   
Memphis, TN - Triad Centre II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Triad Centre II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Atrium I & II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,570,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 9,265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,188,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnAtriumIIiMember
   
Memphis, TN - Atrium I & II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Atrium I & II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Centrum [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 9,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,013,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,812,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,013,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 9,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 9,405,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCentrumMember
   
Memphis, TN - Centrum [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Centrum [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Comcast [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 9,566,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 8,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 9,566,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 9,566,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnComcastCorporationMember
   
Memphis, TN - Comcast [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Comcast [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - International Place Phase II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 14,887,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 37,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 4,884,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 27,782,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 4,884,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 33,107,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 37,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 14,887,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 37,991,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 14,887,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnInternationalPlaceIiMember
   
Memphis, TN - International Place Phase II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - International Place Phase II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - PennMarc Centre [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 16,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 6,258,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 10,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 13,101,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 16,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 16,708,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnPennMarcMember
   
Memphis, TN - PennMarc Centre [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - PennMarc Centre [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Shadow Creek I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 924,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 466,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 6,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,117,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIMember
   
Memphis, TN - Shadow Creek I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Shadow Creek I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Shadow Creek II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 467,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 7,334,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 7,334,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnShadowCreekIiMember
   
Memphis, TN - Shadow Creek II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Shadow Creek II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center A [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,694,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 282,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,286,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterMember
   
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center A [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center A [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center B [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,366,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,754,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,262,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,366,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 9,016,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterBMember
   
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center B [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center B [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center C [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 6,621,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 221,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 6,621,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 6,621,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterCMember
   
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center C [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center C [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center D [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 6,473,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 744,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 193,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 6,473,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 6,473,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindOfficeCenterDMember
   
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center D [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Southwind Office Center D [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Colonnade [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,939,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 9,925,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,481,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 267,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,358,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 9,925,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,939,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 9,925,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,939,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnColonnadeMember
   
Memphis, TN - Colonnade [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Colonnade [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - ThyssenKrupp Elevator Mfg Headquarters [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 9,407,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 25,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 8,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,065,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 9,407,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 9,407,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnThyssenkruppMember
   
Memphis, TN - ThyssenKrupp Elevator Mfg Headquarters [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - ThyssenKrupp Elevator Mfg Headquarters [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Crescent Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,631,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 47,635,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 39,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
[1]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 7,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 32,756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (547,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 7,551,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 7,328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 40,307,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 47,635,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,631,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 47,635,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,631,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnCrescentCenterMember
   
Memphis, TN - Crescent Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Crescent Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Southwind Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (1,477,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,185,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnSouthwindLandMember
   
Memphis, TN - Triad Center III [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 38,056,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 36,803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 36,803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 38,056,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 38,056,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTnTriadCenterMember
   
Memphis, TN - Triad Center III [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Triad Center III [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Capital Grille [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 39,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
[1]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 311,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 311,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 246,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNCapitalGrilleMember
   
Memphis, TN - Capital Grille [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Capital Grille [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Memphis, TN - Seasons 52 [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 282,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,061,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 39,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
[1]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 320,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 320,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,061,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 282,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,061,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 282,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_MemphisTNSeasons52Member
   
Memphis, TN - Seasons 52 [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Memphis, TN - Seasons 52 [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - 3322 West End [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 12,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 34,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,025,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 27,490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,025,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 31,327,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 34,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 12,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 34,352,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 12,116,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3322WestEndMember
   
Nashville, TN - 3322 West End [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - 3322 West End [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - 3401 West End [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 14,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 34,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 5,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 22,917,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 5,862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 28,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 34,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 14,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 34,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 14,930,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn3401WestEndMember
   
Nashville, TN - 3401 West End [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - 3401 West End [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - 5310 Maryland Way [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,525,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,863,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,811,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,863,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,525,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,875,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,525,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTn5310MarylandWayMember
   
Nashville, TN - 5310 Maryland Way [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - 5310 Maryland Way [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs 1 & 2 Deck [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 709,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings12DeckMember
   
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs 1 & 2 Deck [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs 1 & 2 Deck [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs 3 &4 Deck [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,418,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,418,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 4,418,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,418,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,418,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSprings34DeckMember
   
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs 3 &4 Deck [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs 3 &4 Deck [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 14,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,583,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 15,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 13,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,598,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 13,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 14,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 14,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIMember
   
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,808,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 19,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 346,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 17,691,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 17,691,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 19,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,808,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 19,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,808,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiMember
   
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs III [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,956,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 18,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,631,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 804,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 15,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 15,861,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 18,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,956,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 18,296,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,956,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIiiMember
   
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs III [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs III [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs IV [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,091,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 20,945,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 19,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 19,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 20,945,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,091,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 20,945,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,091,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsIvMember
   
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs IV [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs IV [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs V Healthways [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 12,153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 56,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,688,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 295,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 52,948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,983,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 52,948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 56,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 12,153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 56,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 12,153,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnCoolSpringsVMember
   
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs V Healthways [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Cool Springs V Healthways [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on the Green II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,951,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,419,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,855,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,419,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 7,532,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,951,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,951,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiMember
   
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on the Green II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on the Green II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on the Green III [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 9,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,649,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,279,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,660,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 7,928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 9,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 9,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIiiMember
   
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on the Green III [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on the Green III [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on the Green IV [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,156,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,713,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,713,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,443,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,156,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,156,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenIvMember
   
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on the Green IV [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on the Green IV [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on The Green V [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 662,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 197,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,139,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 859,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,139,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,783,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHarpethOnGreenVMember
   
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on The Green V [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Harpeth on The Green V [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Hickory Trace [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,812,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 164,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,328,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 4,484,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,812,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,812,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHickoryTraceMember
   
Nashville, TN - Hickory Trace [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Hickory Trace [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Highwoods Plaza I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,779,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,754,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,552,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 307,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 8,895,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,859,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,895,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,754,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,779,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,754,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,779,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIMember
   
Nashville, TN - Highwoods Plaza I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Highwoods Plaza I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Highwoods Plaza II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,538,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 307,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 8,795,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,755,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,795,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,538,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,550,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,538,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnHighwoodsPlazaIiMember
   
Nashville, TN - Highwoods Plaza II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Highwoods Plaza II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Seven Springs - Land II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,715,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (1,486,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsLandIiMember
   
Nashville, TN - Seven Springs I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 14,381,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 592,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 11,713,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,668,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,713,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 14,381,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 14,381,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSevenSpringsIMember
   
Nashville, TN - Seven Springs I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Seven Springs I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - SouthPointe [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,655,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 310,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 7,019,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,965,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 7,019,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,984,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnSouthpointeMember
   
Nashville, TN - SouthPointe [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - SouthPointe [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - The Ramparts of Brentwood [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,944,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 17,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,806,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 14,924,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 17,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,944,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 17,318,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,944,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnRampartsAtBrentwoodMember
   
Nashville, TN - The Ramparts of Brentwood [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - The Ramparts of Brentwood [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Westwood South [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 11,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 382,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 8,681,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,488,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,681,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 11,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 11,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWestwoodSouthMember
   
Nashville, TN - Westwood South [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Westwood South [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - 100 Winners Circle [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,258,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,955,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,452,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTnWinnersCircleMember
   
Nashville, TN - 100 Winners Circle [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - 100 Winners Circle [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - The Pinnacle at Symphony Place [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,904,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 145,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 141,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 145,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 145,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,904,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 145,507,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 6,904,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNThePinnacleatSymphonyMember
   
Nashville, TN - The Pinnacle at Symphony Place [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - The Pinnacle at Symphony Place [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - Seven Springs East [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 40,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 2,525,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 37,479,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,525,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 37,479,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 40,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 40,004,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNSevenSpringsEastMember
   
Nashville, TN - Seven Springs East [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - Seven Springs East [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Nashville, TN - The Shops at Seven Springs [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 803,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 8,030,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,030,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 297,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_NashvilleTNShopsatSevenSpringsMember
   
Nashville, TN - The Shops at Seven Springs [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Nashville, TN - The Shops at Seven Springs [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Orlando, FL - Berkshire at MetroCenter [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 14,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 672,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 12,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,937,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 12,685,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 14,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 14,622,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlBerkshireAtMetroCenterMember
   
Orlando, FL - Berkshire at MetroCenter [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Orlando, FL - Berkshire at MetroCenter [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Orlando, FL - Capital Plaza III Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,994,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 18,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlCapitalPlazaIiiMember
   
Orlando, FL - Eola Park Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,027,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,027,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,027,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,027,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,027,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlEolaParkLandMember
   
Orlando, FL - Oxford Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 51,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,151,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowest1LandMember
   
Orlando, FL - Stratford Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,886,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (148,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,886,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,886,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,886,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlMetrowestLandMember
   
Orlando, FL - Windsor at Metro Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 2,060,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 8,039,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,060,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,039,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,281,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_OrlandoFlWindsorAtMetroCenterMember
   
Orlando, FL - Windsor at Metro Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Orlando, FL - Windsor at Metro Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
South Florida - The 1800 Eller Drive Building [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 9,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,078,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 12,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 6,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFlorida1800EllerDriveBuildingMember
   
South Florida - The 1800 Eller Drive Building [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
South Florida - The 1800 Eller Drive Building [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Orlando - Seaside Plaza [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 36,717,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,893,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 29,541,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,893,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 32,824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 36,717,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 36,717,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,020,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaSeasidePlazaMember
   
Orlando - Seaside Plaza [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Orlando - Seaside Plaza [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Orlando - Capital Plaza Two [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 49,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 4,346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 43,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 4,346,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 45,554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 49,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 49,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaTwoMember
   
Orlando - Capital Plaza Two [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Orlando - Capital Plaza Two [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Orlando - Capital Plaza One [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,909,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 31,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 27,321,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,075,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 28,396,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 31,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,909,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 31,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,909,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaCapitalPlazaOneMember
   
Orlando - Capital Plaza One [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Orlando - Capital Plaza One [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Orlando - Landmark Center Two [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,434,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 28,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 4,743,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 22,031,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,762,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 4,743,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 23,793,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 28,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,434,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 28,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,434,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterTwoMember
   
Orlando - Landmark Center Two [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Orlando - Landmark Center Two [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Orlando - Landmark Center One [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 29,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 6,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 22,655,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,078,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 6,207,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 23,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 29,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 29,940,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLandmarkCenterOneMember
   
Orlando - Landmark Center One [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Orlando - Landmark Center One [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
South Florida - Lincoln Plaza [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 59,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 3,490,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 56,079,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,490,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 56,079,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 59,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 59,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_SouthFloridaLincolnPlazaMember
   
South Florida - Lincoln Plaza [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
South Florida - Lincoln Plaza [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 6348 Burnt Poplar [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 724,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,900,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 254,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 724,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,154,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6348BurntPoplarMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 6348 Burnt Poplar [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 6348 Burnt Poplar [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 6350 Burnt Poplar [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 323,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,697,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc6350BurntPoplarMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 6350 Burnt Poplar [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 6350 Burnt Poplar [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 420 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 935,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 379,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,516,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 379,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,986,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 935,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 935,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding1Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 420 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 420 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 418 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,114,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 588,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,437,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,114,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,899,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,114,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding2Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 418 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 418 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 416 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,047,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 322,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 432,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 322,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,725,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,047,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,047,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuilding3Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 416 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 416 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7031 Albert Pick Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,921,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,231,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,741,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,508,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 7031 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7031 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7029 Albert Pick Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,519,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 739,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 4,756,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,241,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingBMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 7029 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7029 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7025 Albert Pick Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 16,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 9,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,542,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,393,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 14,118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 16,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 16,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 6,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingCMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 7025 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7025 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7027 Albert Pick Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,565,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 699,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,016,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,549,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 4,016,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,565,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,565,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastBuildingDMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 7027 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7027 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7009 Albert Pick Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 572,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 224,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,068,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 224,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,274,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 572,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 572,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastCopierConsultantsMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 7009 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7009 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 426 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 465,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 380,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 845,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHewlettpackardMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 426 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 426 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC -422 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 684,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 145,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,081,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 338,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 145,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,419,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 684,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 684,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastHighlandMember
   
Greensboro, NC -422 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC -422 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 406 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 265,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 270,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 994,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 994,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastInacomBuildingMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 406 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 406 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7021 Albert Pick Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 237,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,103,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 237,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,383,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,620,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter1Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 7021 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7021 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7019 Albert Pick Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 581,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 946,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 192,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 581,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 581,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter2Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 7019 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7019 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7015 Albert Pick Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 759,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 305,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,575,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 759,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,880,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 759,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter3Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 7015 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7015 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7017 Albert Pick Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 225,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 928,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 197,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 225,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,125,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 550,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCenter4Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 7017 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7017 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7011 Albert Pick Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 171,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 777,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 171,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,019,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastServiceCourtMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 7011 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7011 Albert Pick Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 424 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,329,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 271,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 239,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 819,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 510,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 819,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,329,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,329,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastSimplexMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 424 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 424 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 410 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 966,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 561,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,174,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 966,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,530,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 966,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse1Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 410 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 410 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 412 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 927,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,523,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 429,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 374,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,952,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 927,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,326,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 927,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse2Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 412 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 412 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 408 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,174,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,486,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 655,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 341,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,174,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,174,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse3Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 408 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 408 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 414 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 659,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,676,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 663,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 659,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,998,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,690,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkEastWarehouse4Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 414 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 414 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 237 Burgess Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,919,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 679,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 860,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,598,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,842,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc1Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 237 Burgess Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 237 Burgess Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 235 Burgess Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 6,718,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,392,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,024,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,416,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 6,718,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 6,718,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc2Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 235 Burgess Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 235 Burgess Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 241 Burgess Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,972,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,517,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,005,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,522,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,972,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,972,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,293,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc3Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 241 Burgess Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 241 Burgess Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 243 Burgess Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 859,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,123,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,514,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 452,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,671,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,123,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 859,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,123,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 859,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkNorthDc4Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 243 Burgess Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 243 Burgess Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 496 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,226,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 546,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,226,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,226,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse1Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 496 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 496 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 494 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 983,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,517,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,517,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 983,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 983,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse2Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 494 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 494 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 486 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,273,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 603,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,273,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse3Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 486 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 486 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 488 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 499,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 499,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,569,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 740,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse4Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 488 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 488 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 490 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,184,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,640,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,907,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,907,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,640,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,184,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,640,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,184,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcAirparkSouthWarehouse6Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 490 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 490 Gallimore Dairy Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - Brigham Road - Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 7,059,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (3,720,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcBrighamRoadLandMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 651 Brigham Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,069,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 453,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 360,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,069,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,798,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,069,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 651 Brigham Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 651 Brigham Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 657 Brigham Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,649,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 14,716,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 881,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 11,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,614,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,102,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 14,716,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,649,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 14,716,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,649,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 657 Brigham Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 657 Brigham Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 653 Brigham Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,401,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 814,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 814,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,401,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,401,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 633,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcEnterpriseWarehouseIiiMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 653 Brigham Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 653 Brigham Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 1501 Highwoods Boulevard [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 9,434,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 7,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,476,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 7,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 9,434,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 9,434,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,554,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcHighwoodsParkBuildingIMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 1501 Highwoods Boulevard [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 1501 Highwoods Boulevard [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - Jefferson Pilot Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 11,759,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (4,311,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 7,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,448,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcJeffersonPilotLandMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 4200 Tudor Lane [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,153,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 515,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 383,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 898,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,153,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,153,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyOnePiedmontCenterMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 4200 Tudor Lane [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 4200 Tudor Lane [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 4224 Tudor Lane [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 435,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 288,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,081,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 723,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,081,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,804,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcRegencyTwoPiedmontCenterMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 4224 Tudor Lane [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 4224 Tudor Lane [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7023 Albert Pick [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,459,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 752,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 834,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 4,211,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,985,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNc7023AlbertPickMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 7023 Albert Pick [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 7023 Albert Pick [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 370 Knollwood Street [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,504,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,826,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 10,999,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood370Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 370 Knollwood Street [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 370 Knollwood Street [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 380 Knollwood Street [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,774,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 18,857,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,029,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,839,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 15,868,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 18,857,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,774,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 18,857,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 7,774,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcKnollwood380Member
   
Greensboro, NC - 380 Knollwood Street [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 380 Knollwood Street [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 799 Hanes Mall Boulevard [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,939,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 13,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 11,375,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 13,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,939,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 13,026,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,939,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcUsAirwaysMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 799 Hanes Mall Boulevard [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 799 Hanes Mall Boulevard [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 3901 Westpoint Boulevard [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,389,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,517,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcWestpointBusinessParkLuwabahnsonMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 3901 Westpoint Boulevard [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 3901 Westpoint Boulevard [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - Church Street Medical Center I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 663,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 9,129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 195,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 9,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 663,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,058,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 663,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIMember
   
Greensboro, NC - Church Street Medical Center I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - Church Street Medical Center I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - Church Street Medical Center II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 626,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 42,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,376,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 626,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 626,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiMember
   
Greensboro, NC - Church Street Medical Center II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - Church Street Medical Center II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - Church Street Medical Center III [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,589,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,551,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 113,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 4,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,589,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,589,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNcChurchStreetMedicalIiiMember
   
Greensboro, NC - Church Street Medical Center III [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - Church Street Medical Center III [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 628 Green Valley [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 763,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 15,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 12,141,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 762,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 12,903,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 15,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 763,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 15,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 763,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC628GreenValleyMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 628 Green Valley [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 628 Green Valley [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Greensboro, NC - 701 Green Valley [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,265,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,719,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 759,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,787,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,265,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,265,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PiedmontTriadNC701GreenValleyMember
   
Greensboro, NC - 701 Green Valley [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Greensboro, NC - 701 Green Valley [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - One PPG Place [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 14,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 150,819,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 115,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
[3]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 9,819,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 107,643,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 33,357,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 9,819,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 141,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 150,819,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 14,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 150,819,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 14,851,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIMember
   
Pittsburgh, PA - One PPG Place [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - One PPG Place [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - Two PPG Place - Office [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 14,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 115,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
[3]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 10,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,390,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 12,368,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 14,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 14,670,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiOfficeMember
   
Pittsburgh, PA - Two PPG Place - Office [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - Two PPG Place - Office [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - Three PPG Place [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 6,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 115,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
[3]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 501,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,923,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,948,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 501,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,871,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 6,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 6,372,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIiiMember
   
Pittsburgh, PA - Three PPG Place [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - Three PPG Place [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - Four PPG Place [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,795,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 115,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
[3]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,239,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 936,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 620,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 4,175,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,795,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,795,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 494,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgIvMember
   
Pittsburgh, PA - Four PPG Place [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - Four PPG Place [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - Five PPG Place [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 115,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
[3]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,924,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,539,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 803,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgVMember
   
Pittsburgh, PA - Five PPG Place [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - Five PPG Place [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - Six PPG Place [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 35,388,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 115,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
[3]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 25,602,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 6,433,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 32,035,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 35,388,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 35,388,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,890,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaPpgViMember
   
Pittsburgh, PA - Six PPG Place [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - Six PPG Place [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - EQT Plaza [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 89,977,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 83,812,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 6,165,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 89,977,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 89,977,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 89,977,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 7,229,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_PittsburghPaEqtPlazaMember
   
Pittsburgh, PA - EQT Plaza [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Pittsburgh, PA - EQT Plaza [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 3600 Glenwood Avenue [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 15,723,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 10,994,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,729,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 15,723,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 15,723,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 15,723,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 6,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3600GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 3600 Glenwood Avenue [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 3600 Glenwood Avenue [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 3737 Glenwood Avenue [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 15,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 318,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 15,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 318,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 15,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 15,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 15,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc3737GlenwoodAvenueMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 3737 Glenwood Avenue [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 3737 Glenwood Avenue [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4800 North Park [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 13,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 27,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 17,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 7,598,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 25,228,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 27,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 13,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 27,906,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 13,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4800NorthParkMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 4800 North Park [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4800 North Park [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4900 North Park [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,552,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,983,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,827,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,552,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,552,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc4900NorthParkMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 4900 North Park [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4900 North Park [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 5000 North Park [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,010,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,612,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (49,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,680,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 961,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 7,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,253,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,957,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc5000NorthParkMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 5000 North Park [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 5000 North Park [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 801 Raleigh Corporate Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,306,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 11,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 828,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 272,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 9,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,100,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 9,990,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 11,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,306,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 11,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,306,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc801CorporateCenterMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 801 Raleigh Corporate Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 801 Raleigh Corporate Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Blue Ridge I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 6,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,606,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,335,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 6,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 6,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,969,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Blue Ridge I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Blue Ridge I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Blue Ridge II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,254,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,410,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 579,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 1,989,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,254,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,451,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,254,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcBlueRidgeIiMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Blue Ridge II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Blue Ridge II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Cape Fear [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 131,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (2,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 820,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 129,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCapeFearMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Cape Fear [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Cape Fear [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Catawba [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,224,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 125,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,635,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (2,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,215,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 123,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,224,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,224,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCatawbaMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Catawba [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Catawba [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen One [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 11,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,529,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (391,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 10,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,138,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 10,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 11,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 11,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,601,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenOneWestonMember
   
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen One [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen One [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Two [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,653,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (389,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 9,087,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,264,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 9,087,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,351,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenTwoWestonMember
   
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Two [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Two [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Three - Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (585,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,291,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenThreeLandWestonMember
   
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Four [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 14,839,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,779,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (397,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 13,457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 13,457,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 14,839,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 14,839,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFourMember
   
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Four [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Four [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Five [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 14,067,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,280,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 55,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 12,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,335,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 12,732,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 14,067,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 14,067,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCentregreenFiveMember
   
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Five [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Five [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Cottonwood [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,947,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 609,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,244,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 434,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 609,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,678,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,947,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,287,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,947,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcCottonwoodMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Cottonwood [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Cottonwood [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Dogwood [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,721,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 766,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,769,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 391,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 766,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,160,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,721,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,721,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcDogwoodMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Dogwood [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Dogwood [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 39,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,758,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 13,003,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (8,359,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 114,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 4,644,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 114,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,758,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 39,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,758,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 39,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeLandMember
   
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Land [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Land [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake One [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 22,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 924,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 1,324,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 20,337,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,248,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 20,337,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 22,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 22,585,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 6,365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeBldgIMember
   
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake One [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake One [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Four [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 23,879,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,659,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 493,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 21,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,152,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 21,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 23,879,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 23,879,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 6,122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeFourMember
   
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Four [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Four [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Six [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 22,755,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 941,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (365,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 22,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 576,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 22,179,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 22,755,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 22,755,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,395,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcGlenlakeSixMember
   
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Six [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Six [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 701 Raleigh Corporate Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 15,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,304,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 540,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 13,956,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,844,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 13,956,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 15,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 15,800,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 6,824,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHealthsourceMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 701 Raleigh Corporate Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 701 Raleigh Corporate Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Centre [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 531,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (267,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 8,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 264,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,247,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,511,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsCentreWestonMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Centre [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Centre [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Office Center North Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 33,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 406,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 357,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 49,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 357,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 49,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 406,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 33,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 406,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 33,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsOfficeCenterNorthLandMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Office Center North Land [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Office Center North Land [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Tower One [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 11,567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 20,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 203,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 16,744,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,903,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 203,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 20,647,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 20,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 11,567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 20,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 11,567,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerOneMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Tower One [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Tower One [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Tower Two [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,383,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 22,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 365,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 503,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 21,449,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 868,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 21,449,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 22,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,383,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 22,317,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 7,383,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcHighwoodsTowerTwoMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Tower Two [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Highwoods Tower Two [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Inveresk Land Parcel 2 [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 695,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 657,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 38,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 695,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 695,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 695,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcInvereskLandParcel2Member
   
Raleigh, NC - Lake Boone Medical Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 934,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,311,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,450,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 934,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,910,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 934,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcLakeBooneMedicalCenterMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Lake Boone Medical Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Lake Boone Medical Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4620 Creekstone Drive [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,586,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 149,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 107,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 256,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,330,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,586,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,586,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcMaplewoodMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 4620 Creekstone Drive [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4620 Creekstone Drive [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4825 Creekstone Drive [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,962,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 398,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 293,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 10,039,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 691,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 10,039,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,962,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,962,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOverlookMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 4825 Creekstone Drive [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4825 Creekstone Drive [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Pamlico [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 10,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 15,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 289,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 14,745,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 289,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 14,745,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 15,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 10,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 15,034,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 10,664,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcPamlicoMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Pamlico [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Pamlico [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - ParkWest One [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,097,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,532,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,290,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,532,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,097,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,532,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,097,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestOneWestonMember
   
Raleigh, NC - ParkWest One [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - ParkWest One [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - ParkWest Two [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 4,122,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,478,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,908,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestTwoWestonMember
   
Raleigh, NC - ParkWest Two [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - ParkWest Two [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - ParkWest Three - Land - Weston [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 385,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 306,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 79,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 385,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 385,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 385,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcParkwestThreeLandWestonMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Progress Center Renovation [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 362,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 362,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 362,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 362,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 362,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 270,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcProgressCenterRenovationMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Progress Center Renovation [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Progress Center Renovation [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Raleigh Corp Center Lot D [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,211,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 8,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,219,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRaleighCorpCenterLotDMember
   
Raleigh, NC - PNC Plaza [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 14,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 73,418,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 44,501,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 72,212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,206,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 72,212,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 73,418,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 14,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 73,418,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 14,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCPNCPlazaMember
   
Raleigh, NC - PNC Plaza [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - PNC Plaza [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 878,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 3,730,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,342,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 878,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,072,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,950,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,143,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 362,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 1,818,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,041,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 362,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,859,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center III [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,590,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 919,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,816,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 855,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 919,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,671,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,590,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,590,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIiiMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center III [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center III [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center IV [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,917,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 586,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,331,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 586,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 4,331,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,917,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,917,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,931,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterIvMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center IV [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center IV [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center V [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,301,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 184,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 6,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,485,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,740,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,463,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRexwoodsCenterVMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center V [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Rexwoods Center V [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Riverbirch [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,136,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 9,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 469,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,038,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 23,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,204,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 492,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 9,242,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 9,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,136,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 9,734,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,136,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcRiverbirchMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Riverbirch [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Riverbirch [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Situs I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,445,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 692,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,646,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 178,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements (1,071,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 870,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,575,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,445,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,445,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Situs I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Situs I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Situs II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 6,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 718,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,254,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 181,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements (1,098,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 899,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,156,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 6,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 6,055,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Situs II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Situs II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Situs III [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 939,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 440,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,078,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 119,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements (1,267,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,811,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 939,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 939,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSitusIiiMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Situs III [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Situs III [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Six Forks Center I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,665,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,627,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 666,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 4,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,066,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Six Forks Center I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Six Forks Center I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Six Forks Center II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,533,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,190,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,723,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,809,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,284,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Six Forks Center II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Six Forks Center II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Six Forks Center III [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,502,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,411,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,560,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 862,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,971,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,502,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,833,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,502,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSixForksCenterIiiMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Six Forks Center III [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Six Forks Center III [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Smoketree Tower [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 19,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 11,743,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,558,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,353,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 17,301,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 19,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 19,654,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 7,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSmoketreeTowerMember
   
Raleigh, NC - Smoketree Tower [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - Smoketree Tower [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4601 Creekstone Drive [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 255,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 217,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 472,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,422,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,894,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,315,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcSycamoreMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 4601 Creekstone Drive [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4601 Creekstone Drive [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Weston Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 25,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 22,771,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (10,271,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 12,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 12,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 12,810,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 25,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 25,310,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWestonLandMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 4625 Creekstone Drive [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 6,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 458,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 268,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 726,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 6,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 6,200,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,458,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcWillowOakMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 4625 Creekstone Drive [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 4625 Creekstone Drive [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 11000 Weston Parkway [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 21,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,651,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 18,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 226,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,651,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 19,076,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 21,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 21,727,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,118,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNc11000WestonParkwayMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 11000 Weston Parkway [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 11000 Weston Parkway [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Five [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 29,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 2,263,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 27,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 27,350,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 29,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 29,613,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCGlenLakeFiveMember
   
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Five [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - GlenLake Five [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - 11800 Weston Parkway [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 170,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNC11800WestonParkwayMember
   
Raleigh, NC - 11800 Weston Parkway [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - 11800 Weston Parkway [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Cafe [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,415,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 7,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenCafeMember
   
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Cafe [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Cafe [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Fitness Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 2,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 2,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 2,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 2,221,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCCentreGreenFitnessCenterMember
   
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Fitness Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - CentreGreen Fitness Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - One Bank of America Plaza [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 835,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 79,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 11,288,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 68,375,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 11,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 68,375,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 79,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 835,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 79,663,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 835,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNCOneBankofAmericaPlazaMember
   
Raleigh, NC - One Bank of America Plaza [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Raleigh, NC - One Bank of America Plaza [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Raleigh, NC - Other Property [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,788,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 24,976,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 9,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (23,151,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements (5,958,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,788,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,360,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 7,788,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RaleighNcOtherPropertyMember
   
Richmond, VA - 4900 Cox Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,971,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 9,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,324,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,311,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 15,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,691,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,339,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,002,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 9,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,971,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 9,341,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,971,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVa4900CoxRoadMember
   
Richmond, VA - 4900 Cox Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - 4900 Cox Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Colonnade Building [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,633,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,364,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,105,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,164,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,364,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 7,269,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,633,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,633,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaColonnadeBuildingMember
   
Richmond, VA - Colonnade Building [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Colonnade Building [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Dominion Place - Pitts Parcel - Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 436,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,101,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (665,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 436,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 436,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 436,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaDominionPlacePittsParcelMember
   
Richmond, VA - Markel 4521 [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 13,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,581,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 13,299,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 168,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements (1,692,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,749,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,607,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 13,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 13,356,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaEssexPlazaMember
   
Richmond, VA - Markel 4521 [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Markel 4521 [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Hamilton Beach/Proctor Silex [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,086,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,345,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 10,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,028,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,373,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHamiltonBeachMember
   
Richmond, VA - Hamilton Beach/Proctor Silex [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Hamilton Beach/Proctor Silex [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Commons [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,656,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 521,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 458,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 979,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,677,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,656,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,656,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsCommonsMember
   
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Commons [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Commons [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods One [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,688,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 22,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 11,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,710,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,973,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,177,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsOneMember
   
Richmond, VA - Highwoods One [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods One [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Two [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,145,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 786,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 226,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 6,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,012,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,145,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,145,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,737,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsTwoMember
   
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Two [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Two [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Five [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 6,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 783,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 11,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 794,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,469,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 6,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 6,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,370,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsFiveMember
   
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Five [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Five [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Plaza [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,008,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 909,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 187,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,912,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,096,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,912,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,008,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,008,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,292,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaHighwoodsPlazaMember
   
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Plaza [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Plaza [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Markel 4551 [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III (144,000)us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,958,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (1,444,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements (6,958,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land (144,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets (144,000)us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance (144,000)us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAMarkel4551InnsbrookCenterMember
   
Richmond, VA - Markel 4551 [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Markel 4551 [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Innslake Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 845,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 195,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 6,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,040,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,500,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaInnslakeCenterMember
   
Richmond, VA - Innslake Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Innslake Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Centre [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,157,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,825,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,127,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,952,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,157,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,157,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,733,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaLibertyMutualMember
   
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Centre [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Highwoods Centre [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Markel 4501 [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,544,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,409,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,300,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 13,259,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 213,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements (4,363,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,513,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,896,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,409,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,544,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,409,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,544,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelAmericanMember
   
Richmond, VA - Markel 4501 [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Markel 4501 [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Markel 4600 [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 13,572,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,700,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 17,081,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 169,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements (5,378,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,869,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 13,572,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 13,572,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,205,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaMarkelPlazaMember
   
Richmond, VA - Markel 4600 [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Markel 4600 [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - North Park [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,659,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 6,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,098,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,169,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 10,757,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,926,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,760,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthParkMember
   
Richmond, VA - North Park [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - North Park [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - North Shore Commons I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,231,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 951,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 17,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 11,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 968,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,263,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,231,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,231,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsMember
   
Richmond, VA - North Shore Commons I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - North Shore Commons I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - North Shore Commons II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,067,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (89,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 10,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,978,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 10,110,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,088,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,987,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsBLandMember
   
Richmond, VA - North Shore Commons II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - North Shore Commons II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - North Shore Commons C - Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,497,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 15,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,512,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsCLandMember
   
Richmond, VA - North Shore Commons D - Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,261,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNorthShoreCommonsDLandMember
   
Richmond, VA - Nuckols Corner Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,259,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 203,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,462,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaNucklosCornerLandMember
   
Richmond, VA - One Shockoe Plaza [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 15,935,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 356,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 15,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 356,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 15,579,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 15,935,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 15,935,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 7,493,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaOneShockoePlazaMember
   
Richmond, VA - One Shockoe Plaza [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - One Shockoe Plaza [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Pavilion Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 201,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 181,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 46,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 20,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements (46,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 201,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 201,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 201,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaPavilionLandMember
   
Richmond, VA - Lake Brook Commons [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 12,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,600,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 8,864,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 21,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,182,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,621,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,046,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 12,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 12,667,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaRhodiaBuildingMember
   
Richmond, VA - Lake Brook Commons [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Lake Brook Commons [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Sadler & Cox Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,535,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 343,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSadlerCoxLandMember
   
Richmond, VA - 4840 Cox Road [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,161,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 15,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,918,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 358,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 13,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 13,559,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 15,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,161,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 15,835,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,161,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaSaxonCapitalBuildingMember
   
Richmond, VA - 4840 Cox Road [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - 4840 Cox Road [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Stony Point F Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,841,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointFLandMember
   
Richmond, VA - Stony Point I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 15,961,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,384,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 11,630,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 59,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,888,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,443,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 14,518,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 15,961,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 15,961,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 6,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIMember
   
Richmond, VA - Stony Point I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Stony Point I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Stony Point II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,616,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 13,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 11,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,240,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,850,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 13,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,616,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 13,090,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,616,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiMember
   
Richmond, VA - Stony Point II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Stony Point II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Stony Point III [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,765,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 995,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 9,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 995,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 9,770,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,765,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,765,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,080,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIiiMember
   
Richmond, VA - Stony Point III [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Stony Point III [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Stony Point IV [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 13,067,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 955,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 12,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 955,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 12,112,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 13,067,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 13,067,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,738,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaStonyPointIvMember
   
Richmond, VA - Stony Point IV [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Stony Point IV [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Virginia Mutual [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,301,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,036,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 15,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,266,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,316,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 7,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,618,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,474,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaVirginiaMutualMember
   
Richmond, VA - Virginia Mutual [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Virginia Mutual [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Waterfront Plaza [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 585,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,347,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 8,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,180,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 593,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,527,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,120,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,929,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVaWaterfrontPlazaMember
   
Richmond, VA - Waterfront Plaza [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Waterfront Plaza [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Richmond, VA - Innsbrook Center [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,306,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 9,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 914,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 8,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 914,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,249,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 9,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,306,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 9,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,306,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_RichmondVAInnsbrookCenterMember
   
Richmond, VA - Innsbrook Center [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Richmond, VA - Innsbrook Center [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - 4200 Cypress [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 21,158,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,673,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 16,470,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,015,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,673,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 18,485,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 21,158,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 21,158,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,495,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFl4200CypressMember
   
Tampa, FL - 4200 Cypress [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - 4200 Cypress [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Bayshore Place [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 15,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 11,817,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,696,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,276,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 13,513,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 15,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 6,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 15,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 6,099,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlBayshoreMember
   
Tampa, FL - Bayshore Place [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Bayshore Place [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - General Services Administration [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 31,759,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 4,054,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 406,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 27,299,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 4,460,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 27,299,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 31,759,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 31,759,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 8,133,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlGeneralServicesAdministrationMember
   
Tampa, FL - General Services Administration [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - General Services Administration [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Harborview Plaza [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 31,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,537,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 29,944,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 969,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements (3,213,000)us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 4,506,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 26,731,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 31,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 31,237,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 8,170,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHarborviewPlazaMember
   
Tampa, FL - Harborview Plaza [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Harborview Plaza [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Highwoods Preserve Building I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 23,571,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 22,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 991,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 22,580,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 23,571,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 23,571,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 8,595,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveIMember
   
Tampa, FL - Highwoods Preserve Building I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Highwoods Preserve Building I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Highwoods Preserve Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 1,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,485,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 485,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 1,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 1,970,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveLandMember
   
Tampa, FL - Highwoods Preserve Building V [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 25,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 24,617,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 24,617,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 25,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 25,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 8,881,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHighwoodsPreserveVMember
   
Tampa, FL - Highwoods Preserve Building V [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Highwoods Preserve Building V [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Highwoods Bay Center I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 40,126,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,565,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (64,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 36,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,501,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 36,625,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 40,126,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 7,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 40,126,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 7,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIMember
   
Tampa, FL - Highwoods Bay Center I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Highwoods Bay Center I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - HIW Bay Center II Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 3,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 3,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 3,482,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwBayCenterIiMember
   
Tampa, FL - HIW Preserve Building VII [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 13,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 12,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 790,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 12,498,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 13,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 13,288,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiMember
   
Tampa, FL - HIW Preserve Building VII [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - HIW Preserve Building VII [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - HIW Preserve VII Garage [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,343,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 6,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 6,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 6,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,343,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 6,789,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,343,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHiwPreserveViiGarageMember
   
Tampa, FL - HIW Preserve VII Garage [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - HIW Preserve VII Garage [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Horizon [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 8,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 6,257,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,564,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 8,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 8,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 4,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 8,821,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 4,220,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlHorizonMember
   
Tampa, FL - Horizon [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Horizon [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - LakePointe One [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 15,925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 45,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 89,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 42,878,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 42,967,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 45,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 15,925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 45,073,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 15,925,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIMember
   
Tampa, FL - LakePointe One [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - LakePointe One [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - LakePointe Two [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 9,043,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 29,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,000,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 15,848,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 672,000hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 11,382,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,672,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 27,230,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 29,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 9,043,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 29,902,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 9,043,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakepointeIiMember
   
Tampa, FL - LakePointe Two [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - LakePointe Two [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Lakeside [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 10,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 7,369,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,045,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 10,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 10,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 3,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 10,414,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 3,722,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideMember
   
Tampa, FL - Lakeside [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Lakeside [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Lakeside/Parkside Garage [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,017,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlLakesideParksideGarageMember
   
Tampa, FL - Lakeside/Parkside Garage [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Lakeside/Parkside Garage [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - One Harbour Place [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 13,041,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 34,396,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,016,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 25,252,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 7,128,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,016,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 32,380,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 34,396,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 13,041,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 34,396,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 13,041,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlOneHarbourPlaceMember
   
Tampa, FL - One Harbour Place [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - One Harbour Place [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Parkside [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 11,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 9,407,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,070,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 11,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 11,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 5,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 11,477,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 5,163,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlParksideMember
   
Tampa, FL - Parkside [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Parkside [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Pavilion [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,167,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 19,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 16,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 3,483,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 19,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 19,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,167,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 19,877,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 8,167,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionMember
   
Tampa, FL - Pavilion [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Pavilion [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Pavilion Parking Garage [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 5,682,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,682,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 5,682,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 5,682,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 5,682,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,142,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlPavilionParkingGarageMember
   
Tampa, FL - Pavilion Parking Garage [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Pavilion Parking Garage [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Spectrum [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,523,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 21,779,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 14,502,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 5,823,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,454,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 20,325,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 21,779,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 8,523,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 21,779,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 8,523,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlSpectrumMember
   
Tampa, FL - Spectrum [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Spectrum [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Tower Place [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 10,997,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 27,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Encumbrances 107,556,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationAmountOfEncumbrances
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
[2]    
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 3,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 19,898,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,587,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 3,218,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 24,485,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 27,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 10,997,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 27,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 10,997,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlTowerPlaceMember
   
Tampa, FL - Tower Place [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Tower Place [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Westshore Square [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 7,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,126,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 5,186,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,629,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,126,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 6,815,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 7,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 7,941,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,856,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlWestshoreSquareMember
   
Tampa, FL - Westshore Square [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Westshore Square [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Independence Park Land [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 4,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 4,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 0us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,943,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 0us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkLandMember
   
Tampa, FL - Independence Park I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,665,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 11,933,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 2,531,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 4,526,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 4,876,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 2,531,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 9,402,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 11,933,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,665,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 11,933,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,665,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFlIndependenceParkMember
   
Tampa, FL - Independence Park I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Independence Park I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Meridian I [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 26,243,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 22,363,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 2,031,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,849,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 24,394,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 26,243,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 2,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 26,243,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 2,283,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIMember
   
Tampa, FL - Meridian I [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Meridian I [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Tampa, FL - Meridian II [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 22,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 1,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 19,588,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land 0hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,813,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 1,302,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 21,401,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 22,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 22,703,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance 1,557,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TampaFLMeridianIIMember
   
Tampa, FL - Meridian II [Member] | Minimum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 5 years    
Tampa, FL - Meridian II [Member] | Maximum [Member]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Life Used For Depreciation 40 years    
Total Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Member]      
Reconciliation of Total Accumulated Depreciation to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,033,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
Reconciliation of Total Real Estate Assets to Balance Sheet [Abstract]      
Total real estate assets per Schedule III 4,309,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost [Abstract]      
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Land 498,166,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Initial Cost of Buildings and Improvements 2,081,542,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationInitialCostOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Land (29,009,000)hiw_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Costs Capitalized Subsequent to Acquisition, Buildings and Improvements 1,758,837,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCostsCapitalizedSubsequentToAcquisitionImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period [Abstract]      
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Land 469,157,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfLand
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Gross Value at Close of Period, Buildings and Improvements 3,840,379,000us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationCarryingAmountOfBuildingsAndImprovements
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation,Gross Value at Close of Period, Total Assets 4,309,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation 1,033,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Carrying Amount of Real Estate Investments [Roll Forward]      
Real estate assets, ending balance 4,309,536,000us-gaap_RealEstateGrossAtCarryingValue
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
SEC Schedule III, Reconciliation of Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]      
Accumulated depreciation, ending balance $ 1,033,106,000us-gaap_RealEstateAccumulatedDepreciation
/ us-gaap_RealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationDescriptionOfPropertyAxis
= hiw_TotalRealEstateAndAccumulatedDepreciationMember
   
[1] These assets are pledged as collateral for a $39.3 million first mortgage loan.
[2] These assets are pledged as collateral for a $107.6 million first mortgage loan.
[3] These assets are pledged as collateral for a $115.2 million first mortgage loan.