Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Net income (loss) attributable to Sterling common stockholders	$ (297)	$ (35,900)	$ 19,087
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest included in equity	1,068	261
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest included in liabilities	16,941	935	7,137
Add /(deduct) other comprehensive income, net of tax:
Realized (gain) / loss from available-for-sale securities	(510)	(1)	25
Change in unrealized holding gain (loss) on available-for-sale securities	560	779	(404)
Realized loss from settlement of derivatives	43	72
Change in the effective portion of unrealized loss in fair market value of derivatives	107	(217)
Comprehensive income (loss)	$ 17,912	$ (34,071)	$ 25,845