Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table] Schedule of Real Estate Properties [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Noncontrolling Interests [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Depositary [Axis] Depositary [Axis] Depositary [Axis] Depositary [Domain] Depositary [Domain] [Domain] for Depositary [Axis] depositary shares [Member] depositary shares [Member] depositary shares [Member] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member] Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred Stock [Member] Depository shares of Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred [Member] Depository shares of Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred [Member] Depository shares of Series B Cumulative Redeemable Preferred [Member] Series Two Preferred Units [Member] Series Two Preferred Units [Member] Series Two Preferred Units [Member] Series Four Preferred Units [Member] series four preferred units [Member] Series Four Preferred Units [Member] Series B Preferred Units [Member] Series B Preferred Units [Member] Series B Preferred Units [Member] Real Estate Properties [Axis] Real Estate Property Ownership [Axis] Real Estate Properties [Domain] Real Estate Properties [Domain] Commercial Real Estate Properties [Member] Commercial Real Estate [Member] Total Properties Under Construction [ Member] Properties Under Construction [Member] Properties Under Construction [Member]. Total Office Properties [ Member] Total Office Properties [Member] Total Office Properties [Member]. Class A Office Properties [Member] Class A Office Properties [Member] Class A Office Properties [Member]. Office Properties Under Construction [ Member] Office Properties Under Construction [Member] Office Properties Under Construction [Member]. Office Technical Properties [Member] Office Technical Properties [Member] Office/Technical Properties [Member]. Hotel Property [ Member] Hotel Property [Member] Hotel Property [Member]. Retail Properties [ Member] Retail Properties [Member] Retail Properties [Member]. Retail Properties Under Construction [Member] Retail Properties Under Construction [Member] Retail Properties Under Construction [Member] Residential Properties [Member] Residential Real Estate [Member] Real Estate Properties [Line Items] Real Estate Properties [Line Items] Ratio of depository shares to shares of Series B Preferred Stock Ratio of depository shares to shares of Series B Preferred Stock Ratio of depository shares to shares of Series B Preferred Stock General and limited partnership interest in the operating partnership (percent) Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Restriction on redemption of OP units from date of issuance (years) Restriction On Redemption Of OP Units From Date Of Issuance In Years Restriction On Redemption Of OP Units From Date Of Issuance In Years in lieu of a cash redemption OP unit to Common Stock conversion (in shares) in lieu of a cash redemption OP unit to Common Stock conversion in lieu of a cash redemption OP unit to Common Stock conversion One OP unit is equivalent to one share of Common Stock (in shares) Common Stock Conversion Rate Common Stock Conversion Rate OP unit conversion rate (in shares) OP Unit Conversion Rate OP Unit Conversion Rate. Series B, Shares Outstanding (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding Series B, Dividend Rate, Percentage Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage Number Of Series Of Preferred Units Outstanding Number Of Series Of Preferred Units Outstanding Number Of Series Of Preferred Units Outstanding. Series Four Preferred Units (in shares) Series Four Preferred Units Series Four Preferred Units OP Units for each Preferred Unit (in shares) Op Units For Each Preferred Unit Op Units For Each Preferred Unit Preferred Units Liquidation Preference Preferred Units Liquidation Preference Preferred Units Liquidation Preference Quarterly Distributions to Series Four Preferred Units Cash Distribtuions to Preferred Unitholders Per Unit Cash Distribtuions to Preferred Unitholders Per Unit Series Four Preferred Units Annual Dividend Payable Rate SeriesFourPreferredUnitsAnnualDividendPayableRate Series Four Preferred Units Annual Dividend Payable Rate Number of real estate properties Number of Real Estate Properties Net Rentable Area (in sf) Net Rentable Area Number of vehicles in structured parking Vehicles In Structured Parking Vehicles In Structured Parking Area of parking (in square feet) Square Feet For Parking Square Feet For Parking Area of undeveloped land parcels owned (in acres) Area Of Undeveloped Land Area Of Undeveloped Land Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest Redeemable Property Partnership [Abstract] Noncontrolling Interest Redeemable Property Partnership [Abstract] Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount Quantifying Misstatement in Current Year Financial Statements, Amount Beginning Balance Temporary Equity, Carrying Amount Redeemable Interest in Property Partnerships Temporary Equity, Carrying Amount Redeemable Interest in Property Partnerships Net Income (Loss) for Redeemable interest in Property Partnership Net Loss for Redeemable interest in Property Partnership Net Loss for Redeemable interest in Property Partnership Distributions on Redeemable Property Partnership Distributions on Redeemable Property Partnership Distributions on Redeemable Property Partnership Adjustment to Reflect Redeemable Interest at Redemption Value Adjustment to Reflect Redeemable Interest at Redemption Value Adjustment to Reflect Redeemable Interest at Redemption Value Ending Balance Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss): Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Effective portion of interest rate contracts Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Amortization of interest rate contracts Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income attributable to Boston Properties, Inc. Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Segment Reporting [Abstract] Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table] Statement, Business Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segment [Domain] Segments [Domain] Business Intersegment, Eliminations [Member] Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] Segment Reporting, Reconciling Item for Operating Profit (Loss) from Segment to Consolidated [Line Items] Net Operating Income Operating Income (Loss) Development and management services income Development and management services Development and management services revenue. Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Gains on consolidation of joint ventures Gain on Consolidation of Joint Ventures Gain on Consolidation of Joint Ventures Interest and other income Interest and Other Income Gains from investments in securities Gain (Loss) on Investments Gains from early extinguishments of debt Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Income from discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, Net of Tax Gain on sales of real estate Gain (Loss) on Sale of Properties, Net of Applicable Income Taxes Gains on sale of real estate from discontinued operations Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Real Estate, Discontinued Operations Gain on forgiveness of debt from discontinued operations Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Forgiveness Of Debt Amount of gain (loss), not previously recognized, resulting from the forgiveness of debt pertaining to a real estate property. General and administrative expense General and Administrative Expense Transaction costs Transaction costs expensed Costs expensed to pursue, purchase, lease or otherwise acquire a property, including costs of lease bonuses and options to purchase or lease properties, brokers' fees, recording fees, legal costs, and other costs incurred in acquiring or pursuing properties. Depreciation and amortization expense Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Interest expense Interest Expense Impairment loss Asset Impairment Charges Impairment loss from discontinued operations Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Noncontrolling interest in property partnerships Noncontrolling Interest in Net Income (Loss) Limited Partnerships, Nonredeemable Noncontrolling interest-redeemable preferred units of the Operating Partnership Noncontrolling Interest in Net Income (Loss) Preferred Unit Holders, Redeemable Noncontrolling interest-common units of the Operating Partnership Noncontrolling Interest in Net Income (Loss) Operating Partnerships, Redeemable Noncontrolling interest in discontinued operations-common units of the Operating Partnership Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Preferred dividends Preferred Stock Dividends, Income Statement Impact Net income attributable to Boston Properties, Inc. common shareholders Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic Net income attributable to Boston Properties, Inc. Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Real Estate [Abstract] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Washingtonian North land parcel [Member] Washingtonian North land parcel [Member] Washingtonian North land parcel [Member] Residences on The Avenue [Member] Residences on The Avenue [Member] Residences on The Avenue [Member] Operating income Rental revenue supoprt payments to buyer maximum Rental revenue supoprt payments to buyer maximum Rental revenue supoprt payments to buyer maximum Sale Price Of Sold Property Sale Price Of Sold Property Sale Price Of Sold Property Proceeds from the sales of real estate Proceeds from Sale of Real Estate Held-for-investment Gains on sales of real estate Gain (Loss) on Sale of Properties, before Applicable Income Taxes Land sold (in acres) Land sold (in acres) Land sold (in acres) Number of apartment units (apartment units) Number of apartment units Number of apartment units Net Rentable Area (retail space) (in sf) Area of Land (in acres) Area of Land Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] 767 Fifth Avenue (The GM Building) [Member] Seven Sixty Seven Fifth Avenue (The GM Building) [Member] Seven Sixty Seven Fifth Avenue (The GM Building) [Member] Investment Geographic Region [Axis] Investment Geographic Region [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Princeton [Member] Princeton [Member] Princeton [Member] San Francisco [Member] San Francisco [Member] San Francisco [Member] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Reclassification between general and administrative expense and real estate operating expenses Prior Period Reclassification Adjustment Number of Joint Venture Partners Number of Joint Venture Partners Number of Joint Venture Partners Schedule of Unsecured Exchangeable Senior Notes [Abstract] Schedule of Unsecured Exchangeable Senior Notes [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Security [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 3.625% exchangeable senior notes [Member] Three point six two five percent exchangeable senior notes [Member] Three point six two five percent exchangeable senior notes [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Coupon/Stated Rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Repayments of unseucred senior notes Repayments of Unsecured Debt Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Earnings Per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Organization Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Stockholders' Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule Of Segment Information By Geographic Area And Property Type Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Reconciliation Of Net Operating Income To Net Income Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Table Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table] Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table] Redeemable Preferred Units [Member] Redeemable Preferred Units [Member] Redeemable Preferred Units [Member] Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Line Items] Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Line Items] Activity of Noncontrolling Interests [Roll Forward] Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest, Equity, Carrying Amount Issuance of redeemable preferred units (Series Four Preferred Units) Issuance of redeemable preferred units Issuance of redeemable preferred units Net Income Distributions Distributions On The Series Two Preferred Units Distributions On The Series Two Preferred Units Conversion of redeemable preferred units (Series Two Preferred Units) to common units Conversions On Series Two Preferred Units Conversions On Series Two Preferred Units Redemption of redeemable preferred units (Series Four Preferred Units) Redemption of redeemable preferred units Redemption of redeemable preferred units Ending Balance OP Units [Member] Op Units [Member] OP Units [Member] Redemption Year Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] Redemption Year Two Thousand Fourteen [Member] Redemption Year Two Thousand Fourteen [Member]. Maximum Redeemable On Redemption Dates Preferred Units Maximum Redeemable On Redemption Dates Preferred Units Maximum Redeemable On Redemption Dates Preferred Units Series Two Preferred Units (in shares) Series Two Preferred Units Series Two Preferred Units Liquidation preference percentage Preferred Units Liquidation Preference Percentage Preferred Units Liquidation Preference Percentage First opportunity to redeem Series Four Preferred Units (in days) First opportunity to redeem Series Four Preferred Units (in days) First opportunity to redeem Series Four Preferred Units (in days) Series Four Preferred Units Released from Escrow (in shares) Series Four Preferred Units Released from Escrow Series Four Preferred Units Released from Escrow Series Four Preferred Units Elected to Redeem Series Four Preferred Units Elected to Redeem Series Four Preferred Units Elected to Redeem Series Four Preferred Units Redeemed (in shares) Series Four Preferred Units Redeemed Series Four Preferred Units Redeemed Redemption of Series Four Preferred Units Redemption of Series Four Preferred Units Redemption of Series Four Preferred Units Operating Units liquidation preference (in dollars per share) Operating Units Conversion Rate Operating Units liquidation preference Series Two Preferred Units On Converted Basis Series Two Preferred Units On Converted Basis Series Two Preferred Units On Converted Basis Series Two Preferred Units Redemption Price Series Two Preferred Units Redemption Price Series Two Preferred Units Redemption Price Dates Series Two Preferred Unit Holders Can Require Redemption From Operating Partnership Dates Series Two Preferred Unit Holders Can Require Redemption From Operating Partnership Dates Series Two Preferred Unit Holders Can Require Redemption From Operating Partnership Maximum portion that may be required for redemption of total Maximum Portion That May Be Required For Redemption Of Total Maximum Portion That May Be Required For Redemption Of Total Distributions to Series Two Preferred Units (in dollars per share) Cash Distributions To Preferred Unitholders Per Unit Cash Distributions To Preferred Unitholders Per Unit Number Of Holders Exercises Number Of Holders Exercises Number Of Holders Exercises Accounting Policies [Abstract] Basis Of Presentation And Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Property Partnerships Member Property Partnerships Member Property Partnerships [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Beginning Balance Noncontrolling Interest in Limited Partnerships Capital contributions Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Net income Distributions Minority Interest Distributions Limited Partnerships Minority Interest Distributions Limited Partnerships. Ending Balance Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Table] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] ASC 470-20 Adjustment [Member] Asc Four Seven Zero Dash Two Zero Adjustment [Member] ASC Four Seven Zero Dash Two Zero Adjustment [Member]. Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping, Disclosure Item Amounts [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Portion At Fair Value Fair Value Disclosure [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Estimated Fair Value [Member] Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Amount [Member] Reported Value Measurement [Member] Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies [Line Items] Mortgage notes payable Secured Debt Mezzanine notes payable Subordinated Debt Unsecured senior notes Senior Notes Unsecured exchangeable senior notes Convertible Notes Payable Total Long-term Debt Impact of accounting pronouncement Net Of Adjustment For Equity Component Allocation Net Of The Adjustment For The Equity Component Allocation. Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Energy [Axis] Energy [Axis] Energy [Domain] Energy [Domain] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Name [Domain] Position [Axis] Position [Axis] Position [Domain] Position [Domain] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Amount of gain (loss) related to the effective portion recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Amount of gain (loss) related to the effective portion subsequently reclassified to earnings (1) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Amount of gain (loss) related to the ineffective portion and amount excluded from effectiveness testing Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Non-cash compensation expense Share-based Compensation Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Gains on consolidation of joint ventures Distributions of net cash flow from operations of unconsolidated joint ventures Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Gains from investments in securities Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments Non-cash portion of interest expense Paid-in-Kind Interest Settlement of accreted debt discount on repurchases of unsecured exchangeable senior notes Settlement of accreted debt discount on repurchases of unsecured exchangeable senior notes Settlement of accreted debt discount on repurchases of unsecured exchangeable senior notes. Gains on sales of real estate Gain (Loss) on Sale of Properties Gains from early extinguishments of debt Non Cash Portion Of Loss From Early Extinguishment Of Debt Non Cash Portion Of Loss From Early Extinguishment Of Debt Gains on sale of real estate from discontinued operations Gain on forgiveness of debt from discontinued operations Change in assets and liabilities: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Cash held in escrows Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash for Operating Activities Tenant and other receivables, net Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Accrued rental income, net Straight Line Rent Prepaid expenses and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accounts payable and accrued expenses Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accrued interest payable Increase (Decrease) in Interest Payable, Net Other liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities Tenant leasing costs Tenant leasing costs Tenant leasing costs Total adjustments Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Acquisitions of real estate Payments to Acquire and Develop Real Estate Construction in progress Construction and Development Costs Building and other capital improvements Payments for Capital Improvements Tenant improvements Payments for Tenant Improvements Proceeds from sales of real estate placed in escrow Increase in Restricted Cash Proceeds from sales of real estate released from escrow Decrease in Restricted Cash Cash recorded upon consolidation Cash Acquired from Acquisition Deposits on real estate Payments for (Proceeds from) Deposits on Real Estate Acquisitions Repayments of notes receivable, net Payments to Acquire Notes Receivable Capital contributions to unconsolidated joint ventures Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Capital distributions from unconsolidated joint ventures Proceeds from Sale of Equity Method Investments Investments in securities, net Payments to Acquire Marketable Securities Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Repayments of mortgage notes payable Repayments of Secured Debt Proceeds from unsecured senior notes Proceeds from Issuance of Unsecured Debt Redemption of unsecured senior notes Redemption/repurchase of unsecured exchangeable senior notes Repayments of Convertible Debt Proceeds from real estate financing transaction Proceeds from real estate transaction Proceeds from real estate transaction Payments on real estate financing transaction Payments on real estate transaction Payments on real estate transaction Deferred financing costs Payments of Financing Costs Net proceeds from preferred stock issuance Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock Net proceeds from ATM stock issuances At Market Stock Offering Program Net Proceeds At Market Stock Offering Program Net Proceeds Net proceeds from equity transactions Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Redemption of preferred units Payments for redemption of preferred units Payments for redemption of preferred units Dividends and distributions Payments of Dividends Contributions from noncontrolling interest in property partnerships Proceeds from (Payments to) Noncontrolling Interests Distributions to noncontrolling interest in property partnerships Payments to Noncontrolling Interests Net cash used in financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Supplemental disclosures: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Cash paid for interest Interest Paid Interest capitalized Interest Costs Capitalized Non-cash investing and financing activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Additions to real estate included in accounts payable and accrued expenses Additions to real estate included in accounts payable and accrued expenses Additions to real estate included in accounts payable and accrued espenses. Real estate and related intangibles recorded upon consolidation Aggregate Consideration Due to Consolidation Aggregate Consideration Due to Consolidation Debt recorded upon consolidation Total debt recorded upon consolidation Total debt recorded upon consolidation Working capital recorded upon consolidation Working capital recorded upon consolidation Working capital recorded upon consolidation Noncontrolling interest recorded upon consolidation Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination Investment in unconsolidated joint venture eliminated upon consolidation investment in unconsolidated joint venture elminated upon consolidation investment in unconsolidated joint venture elminated upon consolidation Mortgage note payable extinguished through foreclosure Transfer Mortgage Payable Real estate transferred upon foreclosure Real Estate Owned, Transfer from Real Estate Owned Land improvements contributed by noncontrolling interest in property partnership Land improvements contributed by noncontrolling property partnership Land improvements contributed by noncontrolling property partnership Preferred Units Issued In Connection With Acquisition Of Real Estate Preferred Units Issued In Connection With Acquisition Of Real Estate Preferred Units Issued In Connection With Acquisition Of Real Estate Dividends and distributions declared but not paid Dividends Payable Issuance of common stock in connection with the exchange of exchangeable senior notes Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Convertible Securities Conversions of noncontrolling interests to stockholders' equity Conversions of noncontrolling interests to Stockholders' Equity Conversions of noncontrolling interests to Stockholders' Equity Conversion of redeemable preferred units to common units Conversion of redeemable preferred units to common units Conversion of redeemable preferred units to common units Issuance of restricted securities to employees and directors Issuance of restricted securities to employees and directors Issuance of restricted securities to employees and directors Computation Of Basic And Diluted Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Investments In Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Abstract] Investments In Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Abstract] Investments In Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Balance Sheets Of The Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Text Block] Schedule Of Balance Sheets Of The Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Text Block] Schedule Of Balance Sheets Of The Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Text Block] Statements Of Operations Of The Joint Ventures Schedule Of Statements Of Operations Of The Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Text Bock] Schedule Of Statements Of Operations Of The Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Text Bock] Segment Information Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Stock Option and Incentive Plan Disclosure of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Revenue Revenues [Abstract] Base rent Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue Recoveries from tenants Tenant Reimbursements Parking and other Parking Revenue Total rental revenue Real Estate Revenue, Net Hotel revenue Revenue from Hotels Development and management services Total revenue Revenues Expenses Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Rental Direct Costs of Leased and Rented Property or Equipment Hotel Direct Costs of Hotels General and administrative Depreciation and amortization Total expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Other income (expense) Other Income and Expenses [Abstract] Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Interest and other income Interest expense Income before gains on sales of real estate Income (Loss) before Gain or Loss on Sale of Properties, and Extraordinary Items Net income Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Noncontrolling interests in property partnerships Noncontrolling interest - redeemable preferred units of the Operating Partnership Noncontrolling interest - common units of the Operating Partnership Noncontrolling interest in discontinued operations - common units of the Operating Partnership Preferred dividends Net income attributable to Boston Properties, Inc. common shareholders Basic earnings per common share attributable to Boston Properties, Inc. common shareholders: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Income from continuing operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Net income (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted earnings per common share attributable to Boston Properties, Inc. common shareholders: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Income from continuing operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share Discontinued operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations and Disposal of Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Per Diluted Share Diluted Earnings: Net income, Per Share Amount (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Weighted average number of common and common equivalent shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Fountain Square [Member] Fountain Square [Member] Fountain Square [Member] Aggregate purchase price Aggregate purchase price Aggregate purchase price Indebtedness assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Ownership Percentage Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Future Fixed Price to Acquire Remaining Portion of Joint venture Future Fixed Price to Acquire Remaining Portion of Joint venture Future Fixed Price to Acquire Remaining Portion of Joint venture Fixed Price Option Expiration Date Fixed Price Option Expiration Date Fixed Price Option Expiration Date Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income or Loss [Roll Forward] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income or Loss [Roll Forward] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income or Loss [Roll Forward] Beginning Balance Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Ending Balance Statement, Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Boston [Member] Boston [Member] Boston [Member] New York [Member] New York [Member] New York [Member] Washington, DC [Member] Washington D C [Member] Washington D C [Member] Rental Revenue: Class A Office Rental Revenue Class A Office Rental Revenue Class A Office Rental Revenue: Office/Technical Rental Revenue Office Technical Rental Revenue Office Technical Rental Revenue: Residential Rental Revenue Residential Rental Revenue Residential. Rental Revenue: Hotel Total revenue Rental Revenue Total Rental Revenue Total Rental Revenue: % of Grand Totals Percentage Of Total Revenue These are percentages not monetary value Rental Expenses: Class A Office Rental Expenses Class Office Rental Expenses Class Office Rental Expenses: Office/Technical Rental Expenses Office Technical Rental Expenses Office Technical Rental Expenses: Residential Rental Expenses Residential Rental Expenses Residential. Rental Expenses: Hotel Rental Expenses: Total Rental Expenses Operating Expenses Total Rental Expenses Operating Expenses Total. Rental Expenses: % Of Grand Totals Percentage Of Total Rental Expenses Percentage Of Total Rental Expenses. Net operating Income Operating Income Loss From Reportable Segments Operating Income Loss From Reportable Segments Net operating Income: % of Grand Totals Percentage Of Total Net Operating Income Percentage Of Total Net Operating Income Real Estate Activity During the Six Months Ended June 30, 2014 Real Estate Disclosure [Text Block] Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Events Schedule of Subsequent Events [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Deferred Bonus and Profit Sharing Plan by Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual with Relationship to Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors [Member] Non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors [Member] Non-executive Chairman of the Board of Directors [Member] Board of Directors Chairman [Member] Board of Directors Chairman [Member] Executive Vice President [Member] Executive Vice President [Member] Stock Option And Incentive Plan And Stock Repurchase Plan [Axis] Stock Option And Incentive Plan And Stock Repurchase Plan [Axis] Stock Option And Incentive Plan And Stock Repurchase Plan [Axis] Stock Option And Incentive Plan And Stock Repurchase Plan [Domain] Stock Option And Incentive Plan And Stock Repurchase Plan [Domain] Stock Option And Incentive Plan And Stock Repurchase Plan [Domain] Restricted Stock [Member] Restricted Stock [Member] LTIP Units [Member] Ltip Units [Member] LTIP Units [Member]. 2015 MYLTIP [Member] MYLTIP two thousand fifteen [Member] MYLTIP 2015 [Member] OPP Units 2012 [Member] Opp Units Two Thousand And Twelve [Member] Opp Units Two Thousand And Twelve [Member] OPP Units 2011 [Member] Opp Units Two Thousand And Eleven [Member] OPP Units Two Thousand And Eleven [Member]. 2013 MYLTIP [Member] MYLTIP two thousand thirteen [Member] MYLTIP two thousand thirteen [Member] LTIPs And Restricted Stock [Member] Ltips And Restricted Stock [Member] LTIPs and Restricted Stock [Member]. LTIPs and OPP Awards [Member] LTIP and 2015 MYLTIP Units [Member] LTIP and 2015 MYLTIP Units [Member]. Non Qualified Stock Options [Member] Non Qualified Stock Options [Member] Non Qualified Stock Options [Member] Unvested 2012 OPP Units and 2013, 2014 and 2015 MYLTIPS [Member] Unvested Two Thousand Twelve OPP Units, Two Thousand Thirteenm Fourteen and Fifteen MYLTIP Units [Member] Unvested Two Thousand Twelve OPP Units, Two Thousand Thirteen, Fourteen and Fifteen MYLTIP Units [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Shares issued Common Stock, Shares, Issued LTIP units issued (in shares) LTIP units issued LTIP units issued MYLTIP units issued (in shares) MYLTIP units issued MYLTIP units issued Non-qualified stock options issued Non-qualified stock options issued Non Qualified Stock Options Issued Employee and director payment per share (in dollars per share) Employee and director payment per share Employee and director payment per share Vesting annual installments Vesting Annual Installments Vesting period for grants of restricted stock and LTIP Units made in and after November 2006. Stock based Compensation Expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Accelerated compensation expenses related To 2011 OPP Units Accelerated Compensation Expenses Related To two thousand eleven Opp Units Accelerated Compensation Expenses Related To 2011 Opp Units Acceleration of Stock Basec Compensation and Stock Based Compensation Associated with Transition Agreement Acceleration of Stock Basec Compensation and Stock Based Compensation Associated with Transition Agreement Acceleration of Stock Basec Compensation and Stock Based Compensation Associated with Transition Agreement Unrecognized compensation expenses Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Weighted-average period (years) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Common Stock, Value, Issued Common Stock, Value, Issued Employee's weighted average cost per share (in dollars per share) Common Stock Weighted Average Price Common Stock Weighted Average Price. Value of LTIP units issued Value Of LTIP Units Issued Value Of LTIP Units Issued. Per unit fair value weighted-average (in dollars per share) Weighted Average Per Unit Fair Value Weighted Average Per Unit Fair Value Expected life assumed to calculate per unit fair value per LTIP unit (years) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Risk-free rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected price volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected dividend rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Method of valuation Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Method Used Weighted-average grant date fair value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted-average exercise price (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Member] Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Member] Unconsolidated Joint Ventures [Member] Equity Method Investee, Name [Axis] Square 407 Limited Partnership [Member] Square Four Zero Seven Limited Partnership [Member] Square 407 Limited Partnership [Member]. The Metropolitan Square Associates LLC [Member] Metropolitan Square Associates Llc [Member] The Metropolitan Square Associates LLC [Member] BP/CRF 901 New York Avenue LLC [Member] Bp Crf Nine Zero One New York Avenue Llc [Member] BP/CRF Nine Zero One New York Avenue LLC [Member] WP Project Developer LLC [Member] Wp Project Developer Llc [Member] WP Project Developer LLC [Member] RBP Joint Venture LLC [Member] Rbp Joint Venture Llc [Member] RBP Joint Venture LLC [Member] Boston Properties Office Value-Added Fund, L.P. [Member] Boston Properties Office Value Added Fund Lp [Member] Boston Properties Office Value Added Fund LP [Member] Annapolis Junction NFM, LLC [Member] Annapolis Junction Nfm Llc [Member] Annapolis Junction NFM LLC [Member] 2 GCT Venture LLC [Member] Two Gct Venture Llc [Member] Two GCT Venture LLC [Member]. 540 Madison Venture LLC [Member] Five Four Zero Madison Venture Llc [Member] Five Four Zero Madison Venture LLC [Member]. 125 West 55th Street Venture LLC [Member] One Two Five West Fifty Fifth Street Venture Llc [Member] One Two Five West Fifty-Fifth Street Venture LLC [Member]. 500 North Capitol LLC [Member] Five Zero Zero North Capitol Llc [Member] Five Zero Zero North Capitol LLC [Member]. Entity Owning Land And Infrastructure Of Project [Member] Entity Owning Land And Infrastructure Of Project [Member] Entity Owning Land And Infrastructure Of Project [Member] 501 K Street [Member] five zero one K Street [Member] 501 K Street [Member] Podium Developer LLC [Member] Podium Developer LLC [Member] Podium Developer LLC [Member] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Properties Name of Joint Venture Property Name of Joint Venture Property Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Carrying value of the Company's investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Number of real estate properties Number of buildings under construction Number of buildings under construction Number of buildings under construction Parcels of undeveloped land Parcels of undeveloped land Parcels of undeveloped land Potential additonal payments to joint venture partner Potential additonal payments to joint venture partner Potential additonal payments to joint venture partner Minimum square footage to make a potential additional payment to joint venture partner (in sqft) Minimum square footage to make a potential additional payment to joint venture partner (in sqft) Minimum square footage to make a potential additional payment to joint venture partner (in sqft) Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Table] Commitments And Contingencies Disclosure [Table] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Table] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Axis] Name of Property [Domain] Name of Property [Domain] John Hancock Tower [Member] John Hancock Tower [Member] John Hancock Tower [Member] 601 Lexington Avenue [Member] Six Zero One Lexington Avenue [Member] Six Zero One Lexington Avenue [Member] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Event [Member] Gain Contingencies, Nature [Axis] Gain Contingencies, Nature [Axis] Gain Contingency, Nature [Domain] Gain Contingency, Nature [Domain] Lehman [Member] Lehman [Member] Lehman [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum [Member] Minimum [Member] Maximum [Member] Maximum [Member] 767 Venture, LLC [Member] Seven Six Seven Venture Llc [Member] Seven Six Seven Venture LLC [Member] Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items] Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items] Commitments And Contingencies [Line Items] Letter of credit and performance obligations Letter Of Credit And Performance Obligation Letter Of Credit And Performance Obligation Maximum funding obligation Guarantor Obligations, Maximum Exposure, Undiscounted Guarantee Obligation Related To Tenant Re-Leasing Costs Guarantee Obligation Related To Tenant Re-Leasing Costs Guarantee Obligation Related To Tenant Re-Leasing Costs Maturity Date Debt Instrument, Maturity Date Bankruptcy claim, amount filed by general creditor Bankruptcy claim, amount filed by general creditor Bankruptcy claim, amount filed by general creditor Bankruptcy claim amount allowed by court to creditor Bankruptcy claim amount allowed by court to creditor Bankruptcy claim amount allowed by court to creditor Bankruptcy claim, price on the private market Bankruptcy claim, price on the private market Bankruptcy claim, price on the private market Bankruptcy claim, denominator used to evaluate claim price amount Bankruptcy claim, denominator used to evaluate claim price amount Bankruptcy claim, denominator used to evaluate claim price amount Bankruptcy Claims, Amount of Claims Filed Bankruptcy Claims, Amount of Claims Filed Property insurance program per occurrence limits Insurance Policy Limit Insurance Policy Limit Coverage For Acts Of Terrorism Under TRIA Covered in Excess of Amount Covered by IXP Coverage For Acts Of Terrorism Under TRIA Covered in Excess of Amount Covered by IXP Coverage For Acts Of Terrorism Under TRIA Covered in Excess of Amount Covered by IXP Coverage for acts of Terrorism certified under TRIA in excess of amount provided by NYXP, LLC, as a direct insurer Coverage For Acts Of Terrorism Under TRIA Coverage For Acts Of Terrorism Under TRIA Coverage for acts of terrorism certified under TRIA Coverage for acts of Terrorism certified under TRIA provided by NYXP, LLC, as a direct insurer The property insurance program per occurrence limits for 767 Fifth Avenue are $1.625 billion, including coverage for acts of terrorism certified under TRIA, with $1.375 billion of coverage for losses in excess of $250 million being provided by NYXP, LLC, as a direct insurer. Per occurrence limit for NBCR Coverage Per occurrence limit for NBCR Coverage Per occurrence limit for NBCR Coverage Value of program trigger Program Trigger Value Program Trigger Value Coinsurance of program trigger Program Trigger Coinsurance Program Trigger Coinsurance Deductible in insurance as a percentage of the value of the affected property, San Francisco Earthquake Deductible Insurance Percentage Of Value Of The Affected Property San Francisco Earthquake Deductible Insurance Percentage Of Value Of The Affected Property San Francisco Per occurrence limit of the earthquake insurance which covers San Francisco region Per Occurrence Limit Of Earth Quake Insurance San Francisco Per Occurrence Limit Of Earth Quake Insurance San Francisco Annual aggregate limit of the earthquake insurance which covers San Francisco region Annual Aggregate Limit Of Earth Quake Insurance San Francisco Annual Aggregate Limit Of Earth Quake Insurance San Francisco Amount of earthquake insurance provided by IXP, LLC as direct insurer San Francisco Amount Of Earthquake Insurance Provided By IXP LLC As Direct Insurer San Francisco Amount Of Earthquake Insurance Provided By IXP LLC As Direct Insurer San Francisco. Earthquake Coverage Included in Builders Risk Policy for 680 Folsom Earthquake Coverage Included in Builders Risk Policy for 680 Folsom Earthquake Coverage Included in Builders Risk Policy for 680 Folsom Earthquake Coverage Included In Builders Risk Policy For 535 Mission Earthquake Coverage Included In Builders Risk Policy For 535 Mission Earthquake Coverage Included In Builders Risk Policy For 535 Mission Earthquake Coverage Included In Builders Risk Policy For Salesforce Tower Earthquake Coverage Included In Builders Risk Policy For Improvements for Salesforce Tower Earthquake Coverage Included In Builders Risk Policy For Improvements for Salesforce Tower Operating partnership guarantee to cover liabilities of IXP Operating partnership guarantee to cover liabilities of subsidiary Operating partnership guarantee to cover liabilities of subsidiary Bankruptcy Claims, Amount of Claims Settled Bankruptcy Claims, Amount of Claims Settled Bankruptcy remaining claim amount allowed by court to creditor Bankruptcy remaining claim amount allowed by court to creditor Bankruptcy remaining claim amount allowed by court to creditor Bankruptcy remaining claim amount based on a privately quoted value Bankruptcy remaining claim amount based on a privately quoted value Bankruptcy remaining claim amount based on a privately quoted value Investments In Unconsolidated Joint Ventures Equity Method Investments and Joint Ventures Disclosure [Text Block] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement, Equity Components [Axis] Common Stock [Member] Common Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Preferred Stock [Member] Additional Paid-In Capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Dividends In Excess Of Earnings [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Treasury Stock, At Cost [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss [Member] AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Equity, value Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Equity, shares Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Conversion of operating partnership units to Common Stock, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Units Conversion of operating partnership units to Common Stock, value Stock Issued During Period, Value, Conversion of Units Conversion of redeemable preferred units to common units Allocated net income for the year Equity Profit Loss Net Income. Dividends/distributions declared Dividends Dividends/distributions declared Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Issuance of 5.25% Series B cumulative redeemable preferred stock Preferred Cumulative Redeemable Stock Issued During Period ValueNew Issues Preferred Cumulative Redeemable Stock Issued During Period Value New Issues Sale of common stock, net of offering costs Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Sale of common stock, net of offering costs Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Shares issued in connection with exchange of Exchangeable Senior Notes, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities Shares issued in connection with exchange of Exchangeable Senior Notes, value Equity component of exchange of Exchangeable Senior Notes Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Equity Component of Convertible Debt Issuance of 5.25% Series B cumulative redeemable preferred stock Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Increase in Carrying Amount of Redeemable Preferred Stock Shares issued pursuant to stock purchase plan, shares Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Shares issued pursuant to stock purchase plan, value Stock Issued During Period, Value, Employee Stock Purchase Plan Net activity from stock option and incentive plan, shares Net Activity From Stock Option And Incentive Plan Shares Net Activity From Stock Option And Incentive Plan Shares. Net activity from stock option and incentive plan, value Net Activity From Stock Option And Incentive Plan Value Net activity from stock option and incentive plan, value Noncontrolling interests in property partnerships recorded upon consolidation Contributions from noncontrolling interests in property partnerships Distributions to noncontrolling interests in property partnerships Minority Interest Decrease From Distributions To Noncontrolling Interest Holders to Property Partnerships Decrease in noncontrolling interest balance from payment of dividends or other distributions by the non-wholly owned subsidiary or partially owned entity, included in the consolidation of the parent entity, to the noncontrolling interest holders. Effective portion of interest rate contracts Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Amortization of interest rate contracts Other Comprehensive Income, Other, Net of Tax Reallocation of noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Equity, value Equity, shares MYLTIP 2014 [Member] MYLTIP Two thousand fourteen [Member] MYLTIP Two thousand fourteen [Member] Operating Partnership (OP) Units (in shares) OP Units OP Units Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTIP) Units (in shares) Long Term Incentive Plan Units Long Term Incentive Plan Units Outperformance awards in LTIP Units (in shares) Outperformance Awards Long Term Incentive Plan Units Outperformance Awards Long Term Incentive Plan Units 2013 MYLTIP (in shares) 2013 MYLTIP 2013 MYLTIP 2014 MYLTIP (in shares) Two thousand fourteen MYLTIP 2014 MYLTIP 2015 MYLTIPS (in shares) Two thousand fifteen MYLTIPS 2015 MYLTIPS 901 New York Avenue Llc [Member] Total revenue Operating Operating Expenses Total expenses Other expense Other Expenses [Abstract] Losses on Extinguishment of Debt Income (loss) from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Gain on sale or real estate Equity Method Investment, Realized Gain (Loss) on Disposal Company's share of net income (loss) Companys share of net income (loss) Company's share of net income (loss) Gain on sale of real estate Equity MethodI nvestment Realized Gain Loss On Disposal Company Share Equity MethodI nvestment Realized Gain Loss On Disposal Company Share Basis differential Income Statement Basis Differential Income Statement Basis Differential Elimination of inter-entity interest on partner loan Elimination Of Inter Entity Interest On Partner Loan Elimination Of Inter Entity Interest On Partner Loan Income from unconsolidated joint ventures Straight-line rent adjustments Straight Line Rent Adjustments "Above" and "below" market rent adjustments, net Above And Below Market Rent Adjustments Above And Below Market Rent Adjustments Distribution related to excess loan proceeds Mortgage loan Mortgage loan term (in years) Mortgage loan term (in years) Mortgage loan term (in years) Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] 1265 Main Street [Member] One Two Six Five Main Street [Member] 1265 Main Street [Member] joint venture partner [Member] joint venture partner [Member] joint venture partner [Member] Company [Member] Company [Member] Company [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swap [Member] New Dominion Technology Park, Bldg. Two [Member] New Dominion Technology Park, Bldg. Two [Member] New Dominion Technology Park, Bldg. Two [Member] Broad Run Business Park [Member] Broad Run Business Park [Member] Broad Run Business Park [Member] Mountain View Technology Park and Mountain View Research Building Sixteen [Member] Mountain View Technology Park and Mountain View Research Building Sixteen [Member] Mountain View Technology Park and Mountain View Research Building Sixteen [Member] Mountain View Technology [Member] Mountain View Technology [Member] Mountain View Technology [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Number of interest rate swap agreements entered into (swap contracts) Number of interest rate swap agreements entered into Number of interest rate swap agreements entered into Maximum period of hedging exposure to the variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions (in years) Maximum period of hedging exposure to the variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions (in years) Maximum period of hedging exposure to the variability in future cash flows for forecasted transactions (in years) Average Fixed Interest Rate Derivative, Average Fixed Interest Rate Payments to Enter into a Joint Venture Agreement Notional Amount Derivative, Notional Amount Term of Lease Signed (in years) Term of Lease Signed (in years) Term of Lease Signed (in years) Portion of Building Leased (percentage) Portion of Building Leased (percentage) Portion of Building Leased (percentage) Real estate and development in process, net Real Estate Investment Property, Net Other assets Other Assets Total assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets Mortgage and notes payable Other liabilities Other Liabilities Members'/Partners' equity Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Equity Excluding Noncontrolling Interests Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Company's share of equity Company Share Of Equity Company Share Of Equity Basis differentials Basis Differentials This amount represents the aggregate difference between the Company's historical cost basis and the basis reflected at the joint venture level, which is typically amortized over the life of the related assets and liabilities. Basis differentials occur from impairment of investments and upon the transfer of assets that were previously owned by the Company into a joint venture. In addition, certain acquisition, transaction and other costs may not be reflected in the net assets at the joint venture level. Carrying value of the Company's investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Time Square Tower [Member] Time Square Tower [Member] Time Square Tower [Member] Salesforece Tower (formerly Transbay Tower) [Member] Salesforece Tower (formerly Transbay Tower) [Member] Salesforece Tower (formerly Transbay Tower) [Member] Property partnerships Partners Joint Venture Ownership Percentage Partners Joint Venture Ownership Percentage Partners Joint Venture Ownership Percentage Payments to Acquire Land Payments to Acquire Land maximum percentage of construction costs to allow partner to have a loan maximum percentage of construction costs to allow partner to have a loan maximum percentage of construction costs to allow partner to have a loan Portion of total costs partner can require the company to fund Portion of total costs partner can require the company to fund Portion of total costs partner can require the company to fund portion of partners equity that can be funded by the company portion of partners equity that can be funded by the company portion of partners equity that can be funded by the company ownership interest sold (percent) ownership interest sold (percent) ownership interest sold (percent) Net Contractual Sales Price Net Contractual Sales Price Net Contractual Sales Price Proceeds from sale of an interest in a real estate asset Proceeds from sale of an interest in a real estate asset Proceeds from sale of an interest in a real estate asset Portion allocation to noncontrolling interest based on carrying value of the total equity of the property prior to the sale Portion allocation to noncontrolling interest based on carrying value of the total equity of the property prior to the sale Portion allocation to noncontrolling interest based on 45% of the carrying value of the total equity of the property prior to the sale Difference between net cash proceeds received and noncontrolling interest recognized Difference between net cash proceeds received and noncontrolling interest recognized Difference between net cash proceeds received and noncontrolling interest recognized Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Dividends, by Reporting Period [Axis] Dividends, by Reporting Period [Axis] Dividends, by Reporting Period [Axis] Dividends, by Reporting Period [Domain] Dividends By Reporting Period [Domain] Dividends, by Reporting Period [Domain] Quarter 4 2014 [Member] Quarter 4 2014 [Member] Quarter 4 2014 [Member] Quarter 1 2015 [Member] Quarter 1 2015 [Member] Quarter 1 2015 [Member] Quarter 2 2015 [Member] Quarter 2 2015 [Member] Quarter 2 2015 [Member] New ATM program [Member] New ATM program [Member] New ATM program [Member] Atm Program [Member] Atm Program [Member] Prior Atm Program [Member] Issued in conjunction with debt exchange for 3.75% exchangeable senior notes [Member] Issued in conjunction with debt exchange for 3.75% exchangeable senior notes [Member] Issued in conjunction with debt exchange for 3.75% exchangeable senior notes [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Common stock, shares outstanding At the market stock offering program, aggregate value of common stock At The Market Stock Offering Program Aggregate Value Of Common Stock At The Market Stock Offering Program, Aggregate Value Of Common Stock At Market Stock Offering Program Maximum Length Of Sale In Years At Market Stock Offering Program Maximum Length Of Sale In Years At Market Stock Offering Program Maximum Length Of Sale In Years At the market stock offering program remaining amount available for issuance At Market Stock Offering Program Remained Available For Issuance At Market Stock Offering Program Remained Available For Issuance. Shares of its Common Stock in connection with the redemption of an equal number of OP Units (in shares) Conversion of Stock, Shares Issued Shares of Common Stock upon the exercise of options to purchase Common Stock by certain employees (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Dividend payable date Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid Dividend paid on common stock (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid Dividend shareholder of record date Dividends Payable, Date of Record Dividends payable, date declared Dividends Payable, Date Declared Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share Dividends Payable, Amount Per Share Series B, Liquidation Preference Per Share (dollars per share) Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference Per Share Proceeds from Issuance of Series B Shares issued in conjunction with exchange of 3.75% exchangeable senior notes Stock Optiona nd Incentive Plan [Abstract] Stock Optiona nd Incentive Plan [Abstract] Vesting Period [Axis] Vesting Period [Axis] Vesting Period [Axis] Vesting Period [Domain] Vesting Period [Domain] [Domain] for Vesting Period [Axis] MYLTIP Vesting 2018 [Member] MYLTIP Vesting 2018 [Member] MYLTIP Vesting 2018 [Member] MYLTIP Vesting 2017 [Member] MYLTIP Vesting 2017 [Member] MYLTIP Vesting 2017 [Member] MYLTIP Vesting 2016 [Member] MYLTIP Vesting 2016 [Member] MYLTIP Vesting 2016 [Member] MYLTIP vesting 2018 [Member] MYLTIP vesting two thousand eighteen [Member] MYLTIP vesting 2018 [Member] MYLTIP vesting 2019 [Member] MYLTIP vesting 2019 [Member] MYLTIP vesting 2019 [Member] Exceptional [Member] Exceptional [Member] Exceptional [Member] Target [Member] Target [Member] Target [Member] Threshold [Member] Threshold [Member] Threshold [Member] High [Member] High [Member] High [Member] Performance Index [Axis] Performance Index [Axis] Performance Index [Axis] Performance Index [Domain] Performance Index [Domain] Performance Index [Domain] Cohen & Steers Realty Majors Portfolio Index [Member] Cohen & Steers Realty Majors Portfolio Index [Member] Cohen & Steers Realty Majors Portfolio Index [Member] NAREIT Office Index adjusted [Member] NAREIT Office Index adjusted [Member] NAREIT Office Index adjusted [Member] TRS Measurement, Years TRS Measurement, Years TRS Measurement, Years. Weighted Percentage of Index Used to Compare to TRS Weighted Percentage of Index Used to Compare to TRS Weighted Percentage of Index Used to Compare to TRS Potential Awards Earned Potential Awards Earned Potential Awards Earned Indices Used to Compare TRS Indices Used to Compare TRS Indices Used to Compare TRS Number of Tiers Number of Tiers Number of Tiers Amount of Each Tier Amount of Each Tier Amount of Each Tier Percentage of annualized TRS for Reduction of Earned Awards Percentage of annualized TRS for Reduction of Earned Awards Percentage of annualized TRS for Reduction of Earned Awards Percentage to Cause Some Awards to be Earned Even if on a Relative Basis it Would Not Result in any Earned Awards Percentage to Cause Some Awards to be Earned Even if on a Relative Basis it Would Not Result in any Earned Awards Percentage to Cause Some Awards to be Earned Even if on a Relative Basis it Would Not Result in any Earned Awards Vesting Percentage Vesting Percentage Vesting percentage Vesting Date Vesting Date Vesting Date. Distributions Percent Before Measurement Date Distributions Percent Before Measurement Date Distributions Percent Before Measurement Date Value of MYLTIP Awards Value of MYLTIP Awards Value of MYLTIP Awards MYLTIP Value Amortized Into Earnings, Years MYLTIP Value Amortized Into Earnings, Years MYLTIP Value Amortized Into Earnings, Years Cash Payment Related to Transition Agreement Cash Payment Related to Transition Agreement Cash Payment Related to Transition Agreement Target Equity Award Compensation Associated with Transition Agreement Target Equity Award Compensation Associated with Transition Agreement Target Equity Award Compensation Associated with Transition Agreement Compensation Expense associated with Transition Agreement Compensation Expense associated with Transition Agreement Compensation Expense associated with Transition Agreement Acceleration of Stock Based Compensation in Association with Transition Agreement Acceleration of Stock Based Compensation in Association with Transition Agreement Acceleration of Stock Based Compensation in Association with Transition Agreement Outperformance awards earned Outperformance awards earned Outperformance awards earned Potential maximum amount of Outperformance Awards earned (percent) Potential maximum amount of Outperformance Awards earned (percent) Potential maximum amount of Outperformance Awards earned (percent) 2012 OPP Units Forfeited (in shares) TwoThousandTwelveOPPUnitsForfeited 2012 OPP Unit forfeited Interest Rate Swap 2.571% [Member] Interest Rate Swap two point five seven one percent [Member] Interest Rate Swap 2.571% [Member] Interest Rate Swap 2.476% [Member] Interest Rate Swap two point four seven six percent [Member] Interest Rate Swap2.476%[Member] Interest Rate Swap 2.523% [Member] Interest Rate Swap two point five two three percent [Member] Interest Rate Swap 2.523%t [Member] Interest Rate Swap 2.480% [Member] Interest Rate Swap two point four eight zero percent [Member] Interest Rate Swap 2.480% [Member] Interest Rate Swap 2.348%Member] Interest Rate Swap two point three four eight percent [Member] Interest Rate Swap 2.348% [Member] Strike Price Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Schedule Of Noncontrolling Interest Property Partnerships [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Noncontrolling Interest Property Partnerships [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Noncontrolling Interest Property Partnerships [Table Text Block] Schedule Of redeemable preferred units Schedule Of Redeemable Preferred Units of the Operating Partnership [Table Text Block] Schedule Of Redeemable Preferred Units of the Operating Partnership [Table Text Block] Schedule of Redeemable Interest in Property Partnerships [Table Text Block] Schedule of Redeemable Interest in Property Partnerships [Table Text Block] Schedule of Redeemable Interest in Property Partnerships [Table Text Block] Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Mortgages [Member] Mortgages [Member] Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value Derivative, Net Liability Position, Aggregate Fair Value Assets Needed for Immediate Settlement, Aggregate Fair Value Assets Needed for Immediate Settlement, Aggregate Fair Value Time period when the effects of the swaps may be reclassified into earnings (in months) Time period when the effects of the swaps may be reclassified into earnings (in months) Time period when the effects of the swaps may be reclassified into earnings (in months) Recent Accounting Pronouncements [Abstract] Recent Accounting Pronouncements [Abstract] Recent Accounting Pronouncement [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncement [Policy Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncement [Policy Text Block] Unsecured Exchangeable Senior Notes [Abstract] Unsecured Exchangeable Senior Notes [Abstract] Unsecured Exchangeable Senior Notes Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Basic Earnings: Net income attributable to Boston Properties Inc., Shares (Denominator) Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities Other Preferred Stock Dividends and Adjustments Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities (in shares) Other Preferred Stock Dividends And Adjustments (in shares) Other Preferred Stock Dividends And Adjustments (in shares) Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities(per share) Other Preferred Stock Dividends And Adjustments (per share) Other Preferred Stock Dividends And Adjustments (per share) Net income attributable to Boston Properties, Inc. common shareholders Net Income Loss Available To Common Stockholders After Allocation of Undistributed Earnings to Participating Securities Basic Net Income Loss Available To Common Stockholders After Allocation of Undistributed Earnings to Participating Securities Basic Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding After Allocation of Undistributed Earnings to Participating Securities Basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding After Allocation of Undistributed Earnings to Participating Securities Basic (in shares) Weighted Average Number Of Shares Outstanding After Allocation of Undistributed Earnings to Participating Securities Basic (in shares) Earnings Per Share After Allocation of Undistributed Earnings to Particiapting Securities Basic (dollars per share) Earnings Per Share After Allccation of Undistributed Earnings to Particiapting Securities Basic (dollars per share) Earnings Per Share After Allccation of Undistributed Earnings to Particiapting Securities Basic (dollars per share) Income from continuing operations attributable to Boston Properties, Inc., Income (Numerator) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent Inceom (loss) from continuing operations before discontinued operations and allocation of undistributed earnings (dollars per share) Inceom (loss) from continuing operations before discontinued operations and allocation of undistributed earnings (dollars per share) Inceom (loss) from continuing operations before discontinued operations and allocation of undistributed earnings (dollars per share) Discontinued operations attributable to Boston Properties, Inc., Income (Numerator) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Discontinued Operations (in shares) Discontinued Operations (in shares) Discontinued Operations (in shares) Discontinued operations attributable to Boston Properties, Inc., Per Share Amount (in dollars per share) Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities (numberator) Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities (in shares) Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities (in shares) Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities (in shares) Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities (in dollars per shares) Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities ($ per shares) Allocation of undistributed earnings to participating securities ($ per share shares) Net Income Loss Available To Common Stockholders After Discontinued Operations and Allocation of undistributed Earnings,Basic Net Income Loss Available To Common Stockholders After Discontinued Operations and Allocation of undistributed Earnings,Basic Net Income Loss Available To Common Stockholders After Discontinued Operations and Allocation of undistributed Earnings,Basic Effect of Dilutive Securities: Incremental Weighted Average Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect [Abstract] Stock Based Compensation, Income (Numerator) Dilutive Securities, Effect on Basic Earnings Per Share Stock Based Compensation, Shares (Denominator) Stock Based Compensation And Exchangeable Senior Notes Shares Stock Based Compensation And Exchangeable Senior Notes Shares Stock Based Compensation, Per Share Amount (in dollars per share) Dilutive Securities Per Share Amount Dilutive Securities Per Share Amount Diluted Earnings: Diluted Earnings: Net income, Income (Numerator) Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Diluted Earnings: Net income, Shares (Denominator) Carrying Value Of Indebtedness And Corresponding Estimate Of Fair Value Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block] Cumulative non-cash adjustment to the accretion of the changes in the redemption value of the noncontrolling interest Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Real estate, at cost Real Estate Investment Property, at Cost Construction in progress Construction in Progress, Gross Land held for future development Land Available for Development Less: accumulated depreciation Real Estate Investment Property, Accumulated Depreciation Total real estate Cash and cash equivalents Cash held in escrows Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Investments in securities Marketable Securities Tenant and other receivables (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $1,099 and $1,142, respectively) Accounts Receivable, Net Accrued rental income (net of allowance of $1,126 and $1,499, respectively) Deferred Rent Receivables, Net Deferred charges, net Deferred Costs, Noncurrent Prepaid expenses and other assets Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Liabilities: Liabilities [Abstract] Unsecured senior notes (net of discount of $11,899 and $12,296, respectively) Unsecured line of credit Long-term Line of Credit Outside members' notes payable Outside member's notes payable The amount for notes payable (written promise to pay), payable to outside member's, which are due after one year (or one business cycle). Outside members' notes payable Notes Payable, Related Parties, Noncurrent Accounts payable and accrued expenses Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Dividends and distributions payable Accrued interest payable Interest Payable Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Noncontrolling interest: Temporary Equity [Abstract] Redeemable preferred units of the Operating Partnership Redeemable interest in property partnership Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Excess stock, $.01 par value, 150,000,000 shares authorized, none issued or outstanding Excess Stock Value Excess Stock Value Preferred stock, $.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized Preferred Stock, Number of Shares, Par Value and Other Disclosures [Abstract] 5.25% Series B cumulative redeemable preferred stock, $.01 par value, liquidation preference $2,500 per share, 92,000 shares authorized, 80,000 shares issued and outstanding at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 Preferred Stock, Value, Issued Common stock, $.01 par value, 250,000,000 shares authorized, 153,481,007 and 153,192,845 issued and 153,402,107 and 153,113,945 outstanding at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Dividends in excess of earnings Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Treasury common stock at cost, 78,900 shares at March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 Treasury Stock, Value Accumulated other comprehensive loss Total stockholders' equity attributable to Boston Properties, Inc. Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Noncontrolling interests: Noncontrolling Interest Items [Abstract] Common units of the Operating Partnership Noncontrolling Interest in Operating Partnerships Total equity Tenant and other receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable Accrued rental income, allowance Accrued rental income, allowance Accrued rental income, Allowance Unsecured senior notes, discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Unsecured exchangeable senior notes, discount Unsecured exchangeable senior notes, discount The amount of debt discount that was originally recognized at the issuance of the unsecured exchangeable senior notes that has yet to be amortized. Excess stock, par value Excess Stock Par Or Stated Value Per Share Excess Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Excess stock, shares authorized Excess Stock, Shares Authorized Excess stock, shares issued Excess Stock, Shares Issued Excess stock, shares outstanding Excess Stock, Shares Outstanding Preferred stock, par value Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Preferred stock, shares authorized Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Series B Dividend Rate Percentage Series B Dividend Rate Percentage Series B Dividend Rate Percentage Series B, shares issued Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Common stock, par value Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, shares authorized Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, shares issued Treasury common stock at cost, shares Treasury Stock, Shares Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments And Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Dividends [Axis] Dividends [Axis] Dividends [Domain] Dividends [Domain] special dividend [Member] special dividend [Member] special dividend [Member] Quarter 4 2013 [Member] Quarter 4 2013 [Member] Quarter 4 2013 [Member] Quarter 1 2014 [Member] Quarter 1 2014 [Member] Quarter 1 2014 [Member] Quarter 4 2012 [Member] Quarter 4 2012 [Member] Quarter 4 2012 [Member] Quarter 1 2013 [Member] Quarter 1 2013 [Member] Quarter 1 2013 [Member] Quarter 2 2013 [Member] Quarter 2 2013 [Member] Quarter 2 2013 [Member] Quarter 3 2013 [Member] Quarter 3 2013 [Member] Quarter 3 2013 [Member] Quarter 2 2014 [Member] Quarter 2 2014 [Member] Quarter 2 2014 [Member] OP Units for redemption (in shares) OP Units redeemed for stock from LTIP Units OP Units redeemed for stock from LTIP Units Redemption of OP units issued on conversion of LTIP Units (in shares) Redemption Of OP Units Issued On Conversion Of LTIP Units Redemption Of OP Units Issued On Conversion Of LTIP Units Outperformance Awards LTIP Units distribution as percentage of OP Unit distribution prior to measurement date Outperformance Awards Long Term Incentive Plan Units Distribution As Percentage Of Op Unit Distribution Prior To Measurement Date Prior to the measurement date on February 5, 2011, 2008 OPP Units will be entitled to receive per unit distributions equal to one-tenth (10%) of the regular quarterly distributions payable on an OP Unit, but will not be entitled to receive any special distributions. Distributions made to OP and LTIP units per unit (in dollars per share) Distributions Made To OP And LTIP Units Per Unit Distributions Made To OP And LTIP Units Per Unit Distribution paid to outperformance awards, OPP Units and MYLTIP Units (in dollars per share) Distributions Made To OPP and MYLTIP Units Per Unit Distributions Made To OPP and MYLTIP Units Per Unit Distribution declared to OP and LTIP units by Boston Properties, Inc. (in dollars per share) Distributions Declared To OP And LTIP Units Per Unit Distributions Declared To OP And LTIP Units Per Unit Distribution declared to outperformance awards OPP Units by Boston Properties, Inc. (in dollars per share) Distributions Declared To OPP and MYLTIP Units Per Unit Distributions Declared To OPP and MYLTIP Units Per Unit Holders of record date Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Date of Record Restriction on redemption of OP Unit to Common Stock (in years) Restriction On Redemption Restriction on redemption of OP unit to Common Stock Redemption of OP Unit equivalence to Common Stock (in shares) OP Unit Equivalence To Common Stock One OP Unit is equivalent to one common stock (share). Common units of operating partnership if converted value Common Units Of Operating Partnership If Converted Value Common Units Of Operating Partnership If Converted Value Value of Series Two Preferred Units assuming conversion Value Of Series Two Preferred Units If Converted To Common Stock value of the Series Two Preferred units if converted to common stock Closing price of common stock (in dollars per share) Closing price of common stock per share Common Stock Marketable Quoted Value Per Share