Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net (Loss) Income	$ (9,190)	$ (221,619)	$ 4,186
Mark-to-Market on Interest Rate Protection Agreements, Net of Income Tax Provision		990	(383)
Amortization of Interest Rate Protection Agreements	2,166	2,108	796
Write-off of Unamortized Settlement Amounts of Interest Rate Protection Agreements	3,250	(182)	523
Reclassification of Foreign Exchange Loss on Substantial Liquidation of Foreign Entities, Net of Income Tax Benefit	179
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Benefit (Provision) Benefit	(1,480)	563	1,503
Comprehensive (Loss) Income	(5,075)	(218,140)	6,625
Comprehensive Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest	1,494	18,527	1,299
Comprehensive (Loss) Income Attributable to First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc.	$ (3,581)	$ (199,613)	$ 7,924