Noncontrolling Interests (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2013
Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Affiliates [Abstract]
Consolidated joint venture, partner's interest (in hundredths)	50.00%
Noncontrolling Interests in the Operating Partnership [Roll Forward]
Beginning noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership	$ 106,480
Adjustment of noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership to fair value	7,434	23,802
Conversions of Common Units to Common Stock	(162)	(351)
Redemptions of Common Units	(93)	0
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership	398	581
Distributions to noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership	(1,249)	(1,584)
Total noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership	112,808
Net Income Available for Common Stockholders and Transfers From Noncontrolling Interests in the Operating Partnership [Abstract]
Net income available for common stockholders	12,128	12,349
Highwoods Properties, Inc. [Member]
Noncontrolling Interests in the Operating Partnership [Roll Forward]
Beginning noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership	106,480	124,869
Adjustment of noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership to fair value	7,434	23,802
Conversions of Common Units to Common Stock	(162)	(351)
Redemptions of Common Units	(93)	0
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership	398	581
Distributions to noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership	(1,249)	(1,584)
Total noncontrolling interests in the Operating Partnership	112,808	147,317
Net Income Available for Common Stockholders and Transfers From Noncontrolling Interests in the Operating Partnership [Abstract]
Net income available for common stockholders	12,128	12,349
Increase in additional paid in capital from conversions of Common Units to Common Stock	162	351
Change from net income available for common stockholders and transfers from noncontrolling interests	$ 12,290	$ 12,700