Whitestone REIT (WSR) 10-Q 7 May 15 2015 Q1 Quarterly report Financial data

Document_and_Entity_Informatio

Document and Entity Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	4-May-15
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	Whitestone REIT
Entity Central Index Key	1175535
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-19
Entity Filer Category	Accelerated Filer
Document Type	10-Q
Document Period End Date	31-Mar-15
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2015
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q1
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		23,232,760

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets

Consolidated Balance Sheets (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Real estate assets, at cost
Property	$682,571	$673,655
Accumulated depreciation	-75,782	-71,587
Total real estate assets	606,789	602,068
Cash and cash equivalents	4,320	4,236
Marketable securities	1,015	973
Escrows and acquisition deposits	3,386	4,092
Accrued rents and accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts	12,188	11,834
Unamortized lease commissions and loan costs	8,590	8,879
Prepaid expenses and other assets	3,067	2,215
Total assets	639,355	634,297
Liabilities:
Notes payable	403,524	394,093
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	15,051	15,882
Tenants' security deposits	4,418	4,372
Dividends and distributions payable	6,747	6,627
Total liabilities	429,740	420,974
Commitments and contingencies:	0	0
Equity:
Preferred shares, $0.001 par value per share; 50,000,000 shares authorized; none issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014	0	0
Common shares, $0.001 par value per share; 400,000,000 shares authorized; 23,264,518 and 22,835,695 issued and outstanding as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively	23	23
Additional paid-in capital	305,862	304,078
Accumulated deficit	-99,006	-93,938
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-363	-91
Total Whitestone REIT shareholders' equity	206,516	210,072
Noncontrolling interest in subsidiary	3,099	3,251
Total equity	209,615	213,323
Total liabilities and equity	$639,355	$634,297

Consolidated_Balance_Sheets_Pa

Consolidated Balance Sheets (Parenthetical) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Preferred shares, par value per share (in dollars per share)	$0.00	$0.00
Preferred shares, shares authorized (in shares)	50,000,000	50,000,000
Preferred shares, shares issued (in shares)	0	0
Preferred shares, shares outstanding (in shares)	0	0
Common shares, par value per share (in dollars per share)	$0.00	$0.00
Common shares, authorized (in shares)	400,000,000	400,000,000
Common shares, issued (in shares)	23,264,518	22,835,695
Common shares, outstanding (in shares)	23,264,518	22,835,695

Consolidated_Statements_of_Ope

Consolidated Statements of Operations and Comprehensive Income (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Property revenues
Rental revenues	$16,465	$13,614
Other revenues	4,787	3,761
Total property revenues	21,252	17,375
Property expenses
Property operation and maintenance	4,083	3,524
Real estate taxes	2,904	2,277
Total property expenses	6,987	5,801
Other expenses (income)
General and administrative	4,485	2,957
Depreciation and amortization	4,564	3,829
Interest expense	3,408	2,329
Interest, dividend and other investment income	-9	-21
Total other expense	12,448	9,094
Income from continuing operations before loss on sale or disposal of assets and income taxes	1,817	2,480
Provision for income taxes	-83	-81
Loss on sale or disposal of assets	-105	-87
Income from continuing operations	1,629	2,312
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	-8	120
Net income	1,621	2,432
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	27	60
Net income attributable to Whitestone REIT	1,594	2,372
Basic Earnings Per Share:
Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (in dollars per share)	$0.07	$0.10
Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT (in dollars per share)	$0	$0.01
Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (in dollars per share)	$0.07	$0.11
Diluted Earnings Per Share:
Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (in dollars per share)	$0.06	$0.10
Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT (in dollars per share)	$0	$0.01
Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (in dollars per share)	$0.06	$0.11
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding:
Basic (in shares)	22,577	21,823
Diluted (in shares)	23,226	21,949
Distributions declared per common share / OP unit (in dollars per share)	$0.28	$0.28
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
Net income	1,621	2,432
Other comprehensive gain (loss)
Unrealized loss on cash flow hedging activities	-319	-38
Unrealized gain on available-for-sale marketable securities	41	83
Comprehensive income	1,343	2,477
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests	23	61
Comprehensive income attributable to Whitestone REIT	$1,320	$2,416

Consolidated_Statement_of_Chan

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity (USD $)	Total	Common Shares [Member]	Additional Paid-In Capital [Member]	Accumulated Deficit [Member]	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Member]	Total Shareholders' Equity [Member]	Noncontrolling Interests [Member]
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified
Beginning Balance, at Dec. 31, 2014	$213,323	$23	$304,078	($93,938)	($91)	$210,072	$3,251
Beginning Balance (in units), at Dec. 31, 2014							398,000
Beginning Balance (in shares), at Dec. 31, 2014	22,835,695	22,836,000
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Exchange of noncontrolling interest OP units for common shares (in shares)		8,000					8,000
Exchange of noncontrolling interest OP units for common shares	0	0	62		2	64	-64
Issuance of shares under dividend reinvestment plan (in shares)		1,000
Issuance of shares under dividend reinvestment plan	-23		-23			-23
Share-based compensation (in shares)		420,000
Share-based compensation	1,699		1,699			1,699
Distributions	-6,773			-6,662		-6,662	-111
Unrealized loss on change in value of cash flow hedge	-319				-314	-314	-5
Unrealized gain on change in fair value of available-for-sale marketable securities	41				40	40	1
Net income	1,621			1,594		1,594	27
Ending Balance, at Mar. 31, 2015	$209,615	$23	$305,862	($99,006)	($363)	$206,516	$3,099
Ending Balance (in units), at Mar. 31, 2015							390,000
Ending Balance (in shares), at Mar. 31, 2015	23,264,518	23,265,000

Consolidated_Statements_of_Cas

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income from continuing operations	$1,629	$2,312
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	-8	120
Net income	1,621	2,432
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation and amortization	4,564	3,831
Amortization of deferred loan costs	300	202
Amortization of notes payable discount	74	76
Loss on sale or disposal of assets and properties	-105	-84
Bad debt expense	184	390
Share-based compensation	1,699	373
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Escrows and acquisition deposits	706	-96
Accrued rent and accounts receivable	-538	-960
Unamortized lease commissions	-273	-290
Prepaid expenses and other assets	145	135
Accounts payable and accrued expenses	-1,122	-241
Tenants' security deposits	46	132
Net cash provided by operating activities	7,519	5,948
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities of discontinued operations	-8	33
Cash flows from investing activities:
Acquisitions of real estate	-6,300	0
Additions to real estate	-2,876	-2,090
Net cash used in investing activities	-9,176	-2,090
Net cash used in investing activities of discontinued operations	0	-33
Cash flows from financing activities:
Distributions paid to common shareholders	-6,526	-6,231
Distributions paid to OP unit holders	-113	-158
Payments of exchange offer costs	0	-14
Proceeds from revolving credit facility, net	9,000	0
Repayments of notes payable	-612	-493
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	1,749	-6,896
Net cash used in financing activities of discontinued operations	0	-11
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents	84	-3,049
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	4,236	6,491
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	4,320	3,442
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
Cash paid for interest	3,132	2,137
Non cash investing and financing activities:
Disposal of fully depreciated real estate	41	45
Financed insurance premiums	1,057	888
Value of shares issued under dividend reinvestment plan	23	26
Value of common shares exchanged for OP units	64	103
Change in fair value of available-for-sale securities	41	83
Change in fair value of cash flow hedge	($319)	($38)

Interim_Financial_Statements

Interim Financial Statements	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Interim Financial Statements	INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
	The consolidated financial statements included in this report are unaudited; however, amounts presented in the consolidated balance sheet as of December 31, 2014 are derived from our audited consolidated financial statements as of that date.  The unaudited financial statements as of and for the period ended March 31, 2015 have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information on a basis consistent with the annual audited consolidated financial statements and with the instructions to Form 10-Q.
	The consolidated financial statements presented herein reflect all adjustments which, in the opinion of management, are necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position of Whitestone and our subsidiaries as of March 31, 2015, and the results of operations for the three month periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, the consolidated statements of changes in equity for the three month period ended March 31, 2015 and cash flows for the three month periods ended March 31, 2015 and 2014.  All of these adjustments are of a normal recurring nature.  The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for a full year.  The statements should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto which are included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014.
	Business.  Whitestone was formed as a real estate investment trust (“REIT”), pursuant to the Texas Real Estate Investment Trust Act on August 20, 1998.  In July 2004, we changed our state of organization from Texas to Maryland pursuant to a merger where we merged directly with and into a Maryland REIT formed for the sole purpose of the reorganization and the conversion of each of our outstanding common shares of beneficial interest of the Texas entity into 1.42857 common shares of beneficial interest of the Maryland entity.  We serve as the general partner of Whitestone REIT Operating Partnership, L.P. (the “Operating Partnership”), which was formed on December 31, 1998 as a Delaware limited partnership.  We currently conduct substantially all of our operations and activities through the Operating Partnership.  As the general partner of the Operating Partnership, we have the exclusive power to manage and conduct the business of the Operating Partnership, subject to certain customary exceptions.  As of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, Whitestone owned and operated 64 and 63 commercial properties, respectively, in and around Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, San Antonio, Chicago and Phoenix.

Summary_of_Significant_Account

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Significant Accounting Policies	SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
	Basis of Consolidation.  We are the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership and possess full legal control and authority over the operations of the Operating Partnership.  As of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, we owned a majority of the partnership interests in the Operating Partnership.  Consequently, the accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Operating Partnership.  All significant inter-company balances have been eliminated. Noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated financial statements represents the share of equity and earnings of the Operating Partnership allocable to holders of partnership interests other than us.  Net income or loss is allocated to noncontrolling interests based on the weighted average percentage ownership of the Operating Partnership during the period.  Issuance of additional common shares of beneficial interest in Whitestone (the “common shares”) and units of limited partnership interest in the Operating Partnership that are convertible into cash or, at our option, common shares on a one-for-one basis (the “OP units”) changes the ownership interests of both the noncontrolling interests and Whitestone.
	Basis of Accounting.  Our financial records are maintained on the accrual basis of accounting whereby revenues are recognized when earned and expenses are recorded when incurred.
	Use of Estimates.   The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates that we use include the estimated fair values of properties acquired, the estimated useful lives for depreciable and amortizable assets and costs, the estimated allowance for doubtful accounts, the estimated fair value of interest rate swaps and the estimates supporting our impairment analysis for the carrying values of our real estate assets.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.
	Reclassifications.  We have reclassified certain prior period amounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements in order to be consistent with the current period presentation.  These reclassifications had no effect on net income, total assets, total liabilities or equity.
	Marketable Securities. We classify our existing marketable equity securities as available-for-sale in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board's (“FASB”) Investments-Debt and Equity Securities guidance. These securities are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses reported in equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income or loss. The fair value of the marketable securities is determined using Level 1 inputs under FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures.” Level 1 inputs represent quoted prices available in an active market for identical investments as of the reporting date. Gains and losses on securities sold are based on the specific identification method, and are reported as a component of interest, dividend and other investment income.
	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. We occasionally utilize derivative financial instruments, principally interest rate swaps, to manage our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. We have established policies and procedures for risk assessment, and the approval, reporting and monitoring of derivative financial instruments. We recognize our interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges with the effective portion of the changes in fair value recorded in comprehensive income (loss) and subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged transaction affects earnings. Any ineffective portion of a cash flow hedges' change in fair value is recorded immediately into earnings. Our cash flow hedges are determined using Level 2 inputs under ASC 820. Level 2 inputs represent quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable. As of March 31, 2015, we consider our cash flow hedges to be highly effective.
	Development Properties. Land, buildings and improvements are recorded at cost. Expenditures related to the development of real estate are carried at cost which includes capitalized carrying charges and development costs. Carrying charges (interest, real estate taxes, loan fees, and direct and indirect development costs related to buildings under construction), are capitalized as part of construction in progress. The capitalization of such costs ceases when the property, or any completed portion, becomes available for occupancy. For the three months ended March 31, 2015, approximately $26,000 and $16,000 in interest expense and real estate taxes, respectively, were capitalized. For the three months ended March 31, 2014, approximately $25,000 and $25,000 in interest expense and real estate taxes, respectively, were capitalized.
	Share-Based Compensation.   From time to time, we award nonvested restricted common share awards or restricted common share unit awards, which may be converted into common shares, to executive officers and employees under our 2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan (the “2008 Plan”).  The vast majority of the awarded shares and units vest when certain performance conditions are met.  We recognize compensation expense when achievement of the performance conditions is probable based on management's most recent estimates using the fair value of the shares as of the grant date. We recognized $1,674,000 and $373,000 in share-based compensation for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
	Noncontrolling Interests.  Noncontrolling interests is the portion of equity in a subsidiary not attributable to a parent.  The ownership interests not held by the parent are considered noncontrolling interests.  Accordingly, we have reported noncontrolling interests in equity on the consolidated balance sheets but separate from Whitestone's equity.  On the consolidated statements of operations, subsidiaries are reported at the consolidated amount, including both the amount attributable to Whitestone and noncontrolling interests.  The consolidated statement of changes in equity is included for quarterly financial statements, including beginning balances, activity for the period and ending balances for shareholders' equity, noncontrolling interests and total equity.
	See our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014 for further discussion on significant accounting policies.
	Recent Accounting Pronouncements.  In April 2014, the FASB issued guidance updating the criteria for reporting the disposal of a component of an entity as a discontinued operation. This guidance was effective for reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014 with early adoption permitted only for disposals that have not been reported in financial statements previously issued or available for issuance. We have adopted the guidance beginning with the year ended December 31, 2014.
	In April 2015, the FASB issued guidance requiring that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. This guidance is effective retrospectively for reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2015 with early adoption permitted only for financial statements that have not been previously issued. We are currently in the process of evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated balance sheets.

Marketable_Securities

Marketable Securities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Marketable Securities	MARKETABLE SECURITIES
	All of our marketable securities were classified as available-for-sale securities as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. Available-for-sale securities consisted of the following (in thousands):
		March 31, 2015
		Amortized Cost		Gains in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income		Losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income			Estimated Fair Value
	Real estate sector common stock	$	1,106	$	—	$	(91	)	$	1,015
	Total available-for-sale securities	$	1,106	$	—	$	(91	)	$	1,015
		December 31, 2014
		Amortized Cost		Gains in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income		Losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income			Estimated Fair Value
	Real estate sector common stock	$	1,106	$	—	$	(133	)	$	973
	Total available-for-sale securities	$	1,106	$	—	$	(133	)	$	973
	During the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, no available-for-sale securities were sold. For the purpose of determining gross realized gains and losses, the cost of securities sold is based on specific identification. A net unrealized holding loss on available-for-sale securities in the amount of $91,000 and $146,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively, has been included in accumulated other comprehensive income.

Accrued_Rents_and_Accounts_Rec

Accrued Rents and Accounts Receivable, Net	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Accrued Rent and Accounts Receivable, Net	ACCRUED RENTS AND ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE, NET
	Accrued rents and accounts receivable, net consists of amounts accrued, billed and due from tenants, allowance for doubtful accounts and other receivables as follows (in thousands):
		March 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
	Tenant receivables	$	8,560		$	7,998
	Accrued rents and other recoveries	8,776			8,800
	Allowance for doubtful accounts	(5,148		)	(4,964		)
	Total	$	12,188		$	11,834

Unamortized_Leasing_Commission

Unamortized Leasing Commissions and Loan Costs	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Unamortized Leasing Comissions and Loan Costs	UNAMORTIZED LEASE COMMISSIONS AND LOAN COSTS
	Costs which have been deferred consist of the following (in thousands):
		March 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
	Lease commissions	$	5,932		$	5,936
	Deferred financing cost	5,821			5,785
	Total cost	11,753			11,721
	Less: lease commissions accumulated amortization	(2,395		)	(2,373		)
	Less: deferred financing cost accumulated amortization	(768		)	(469		)
	Total cost, net of accumulated amortization	$	8,590		$	8,879

Debt

Debt	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt Disclosure	DEBT
	Certain subsidiaries of Whitestone are the borrowers under various financing arrangements. These subsidiaries are separate legal entities and their respective assets and credit are not available to satisfy the debt of Whitestone or any of its other subsidiaries.
	Debt consisted of the following as of the dates indicated (in thousands):
	Description		March 31, 2015		December 31, 2014
	Fixed rate notes
	$10.5 million, LIBOR plus 2.00% Note, due September 24, 2018 (1)		$	10,400	$	10,460
	$50.0 million, 0.84% plus 1.75% to 2.50% Note, due February 17, 2017 (2)		50,000		50,000
	$37.0 million 3.76% Note, due December 1, 2020		35,858		36,090
	$6.5 million 3.80% Note, due January 1, 2019		6,314		6,355
	$19.0 million 4.15% Note, due December 1, 2024		19,000		19,000
	$20.2 million 4.28% Note, due June 6, 2023		20,200		20,200
	$14.0 million 4.34% Note, due September 11, 2024		14,000		14,000
	$14.3 million 4.34% Note, due September 11, 2024		14,300		14,300
	$16.5 million 4.97% Note, due September 26, 2023		16,450		16,450
	$15.1 million 4.99% Note, due January 6, 2024		15,060		15,060
	$9.2 million, Prime Rate less 2.00%, due December 29, 2017 (3)		7,888		7,888
	$2.6 million 5.46% Note, due October 1, 2023		2,576		2,583
	$11.1 million 5.87% Note, due August 6, 2016		11,531		11,607
	$0.9 million 2.97% Note, due November 28, 2015		847		—
	Floating rate notes
	Unsecured line of credit, LIBOR plus 1.40% to 1.95%, due November 7, 2018		129,100		120,100
	$50.0 million, LIBOR plus 1.35% to 1.90% Note, due November 7, 2019		50,000		50,000
			$	403,524	$	394,093
	(1)	Promissory note includes an interest rate swap that fixed the interest rate at 3.55% for the duration of the term.
	(2)	Promissory note includes an interest rate swap that fixed the LIBOR portion of our $50 million term loan under our previous unsecured revolving credit facility at 0.84%.
	(3)	Promissory note includes an interest rate swap that fixed the interest rate at 5.72% for the duration of the term. As part of our acquisition of Paradise Plaza in August 2012, we recorded a discount on the note of $1.3 million, which amortizes into interest expense over the life of the loan and results in an imputed interest rate of 4.13%.
	On December 24, 2014, we assumed a $2.6 million promissory note as part of our acquisition of the hard corner at Village Square at Dana Park (See Note 14). The 5.46% fixed interest rate note matures October 1, 2023.
	On November 26, 2014, we, operating through our subsidiary, Whitestone Headquarters Village, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, entered into a $19.0 million promissory note (the “Headquarters Note”), with a fixed interest rate of 4.15% payable to Morgan Stanley Bank, N.A. and a maturity date of December 1, 2024. Proceeds from the Headquarters Note were used to repay a portion of our unsecured revolving credit facility.
	On November 7, 2014, we, through our Operating Partnership, entered into an unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Facility”) with the lenders party thereto, with BMO Capital Markets, Wells Fargo Securities, LLC, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, and U.S. Bank, National Association, as co-lead arrangers and joint book runners, and Bank of Montreal, as administrative agent (the “Agent”). The Facility amended and restated our previous unsecured revolving credit facility. Proceeds from the Facility were used for general corporate purposes, including property acquisitions, debt repayment, capital expenditures, the expansion, redevelopment and re-tenanting of properties in our portfolio and working capital. We intend to use the additional proceeds from the Facility for general corporate purposes, including property acquisitions, debt repayment, capital expenditure, the expansion, redevelopment and re-tenanting of properties in our portfolio and working capital.
	The Facility is comprised of three tranches:
	•	$400 million unsecured revolving credit facility (the “Revolver”);
	•	$50 million unsecured term loan (the “Term Loan 1”); and
	•	$50 million unsecured term loan (the “Term Loan 2”).
	The Facility includes an accordion feature that will allow the Operating Partnership to increase the borrowing capacity to $700 million, upon the satisfaction of certain conditions. The Revolver will mature on November 7, 2018, with an option to extend for one additional year to November 7, 2019, subject to certain conditions, including payment of an extension fee. The Term Loan 1 will mature on February 17, 2017, and the Term Loan 2 will mature on November 7, 2019.
	Borrowings under the Facility accrue interest (at the Operating Partnership's option) at a Base Rate or an Adjusted LIBOR plus an applicable margin based upon our then existing leverage. The applicable margin for Adjusted LIBOR borrowings ranges from 1.40% to 1.95% for the Revolver and 1.35% to 1.90% for the term loans. Base Rate means the higher of: (a) the Agent's prime commercial rate, (b) the sum of (i) the average rate quoted by the Agent by two or more federal funds brokers selected by the Agent for sale to the Agent at face value of federal funds in the secondary market in an amount equal or comparable to the principal amount for which such rate is being determined, plus (ii) 1/2 of 1.00%, and (c) the LIBOR rate for such day plus 1.00%. Adjusted LIBOR means LIBOR divided by one minus the Eurodollar Reserve Percentage. The Eurodollar Reserve Percentage means the maximum reserve percentage at which reserves are imposed by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System on eurocurrency liabilities.
	We will serve as the guarantor for funds borrowed by the Operating Partnership under the Facility. The Facility contains customary terms and conditions, including, without limitation, affirmative and negative covenants such as information reporting requirements, maximum secured indebtedness to total asset value, minimum EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, amortization or extraordinary items) to fixed charges, and maintenance of a minimum net worth. The Facility also contains customary events of default with customary notice and cure, including, without limitation, nonpayment, breach of covenant, misrepresentation of representations and warranties in a material respect, cross-default to other major indebtedness, change of control, bankruptcy and loss of REIT tax status. As of March 31, 2015, we were in compliance with all covenants under the Facility.
	As of March 31, 2015, $229.1 million was drawn on the Facility, and our remaining borrowing capacity was $270.9 million. Proceeds from the Facility were used for general corporate purposes, including property acquisitions, debt repayment, capital expenditures, the expansion, redevelopment and retenanting of properties in our portfolio and working capital.
	On September 3, 2014, we, operating through our subsidiary, Whitestone Pecos Ranch, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, entered into a $14.0 million promissory note (the “Pecos Note”), with a fixed interest rate of 4.34% payable to Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and a maturity date of September 11, 2024. Proceeds from the Pecos Note were used to repay a portion of our previous unsecured revolving credit facility.
	On August 26, 2014, we, operating through our subsidiary, Whitestone Shops at Starwood, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company, entered into a $14.3 million promissory note (the “Starwood Note”), with a fixed interest rate of 4.34% payable to Wells Fargo Bank, National Association and a maturity date of September 11, 2024. Proceeds from the Starwood Note were used to repay a portion of our previous unsecured revolving credit facility.
	As of March 31, 2015, our $173.6 million in secured debt was collateralized by 20 properties with a carrying value of $216.5 million.  Our loans contain restrictions that would require the payment of prepayment penalties for the acceleration of outstanding debt and are secured by deeds of trust on certain of our properties and by assignment of the rents and leases associated with those properties.  As of March 31, 2015, we were in compliance with all loan covenants.
	Scheduled maturities of our outstanding debt as of March 31, 2015 were as follows (in thousands):
	Year		Amount Due
	2015		$	2,287
	2016		13,269
	2017		60,212
	2018		141,236
	2019		58,049
	Thereafter		128,471
	Total		$	403,524

Derivatives_and_Hedging_Activi

Derivatives and Hedging Activities	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivatives and Hedging Activities	DERIVATIVES AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES
	The fair value of our interest rate swaps is as follows (in thousands):
			Balance Sheet Location		Estimated Fair Value
	Interest rate swaps:
	31-Mar-15		Accounts payable and accrued expenses		$	1,247
	31-Dec-14		Accounts payable and accrued expenses		$	1,016
	A summary of our interest rate swap activity is as follows (in thousands):
			Amount Recognized as Comprehensive Loss				Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings	Amount of Loss Recognized in Earnings (1)
	Three months ended March 31, 2015		$	(319	)		Interest expense	$	(207	)
	Three months ended March 31, 2014		$	(38	)		Interest expense	$	(190	)
	(1)	We did not recognize any ineffective portion of our interest rate swaps in earnings for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014.

Earnings_Loss_Per_Share

Earnings (Loss) Per Share	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Earnings Per Share	EARNINGS PER SHARE
	Basic earnings per share for our common shareholders is calculated by dividing income from continuing operations excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares and the net income attributable to noncontrolling interests by our weighted average common shares outstanding during the period.  Diluted earnings per share is computed by dividing the net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares and the net income attributable to noncontrolling interests by the weighted average number of common shares including any dilutive unvested restricted shares.
	Certain of our performance-based restricted common shares are considered participating securities that require the use of the two-class method for the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share.  During the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, 392,599 and 555,681 OP units, respectively, were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings per share because their effect would be anti-dilutive.
	For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, distributions of $116,000 and $38,000, respectively, were made to holders of certain restricted common shares, $9,000 and $19,000, respectively, of which were charged against earnings. See Note 11 for information related to restricted common shares under the 2008 Plan.
		Three Months Ended March 31,
	(in thousands, except per share data)	2015			2014
	Numerator:
	Income from continuing operations	$	1,629		$	2,312
	Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(28		)	(57		)
	Distributions paid on unvested restricted shares	(107		)	(19		)
	Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	1,494			2,236
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations	(8		)	120
	Less: Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	1			(3		)
	Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT	(7		)	117
	Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	$	1,487		$	2,353
	Denominator:
	Weighted average number of common shares - basic	22,577			21,823
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Unvested restricted shares	649			126
	Weighted average number of common shares - dilutive	23,226			21,949
	Earnings Per Share:
	Basic:
	Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	$	0.07		$	0.1
	Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT	0			0.01
	Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	$	0.07		$	0.11
	Diluted:
	Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	$	0.06		$	0.1
	Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT	0			0.01
	Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	$	0.06		$	0.11

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	INCOME TAXES
	Federal income taxes are not provided because we intend to and believe we qualify as a REIT under the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”) and because we have distributed and intend to continue to distribute all of our taxable income to our shareholders.  As a REIT, we must distribute at least 90% of our real estate investment trust taxable income to our shareholders and meet certain income sources and investment restriction requirements.  In addition, REITs are subject to a number of organizational and operational requirements.  If we fail to qualify as a REIT in any taxable year, we will be subject to federal income tax (including any applicable alternative minimum tax) on our taxable income at regular corporate tax rates.
	Taxable income differs from net income for financial reporting purposes principally due to differences in the timing of recognition of interest, real estate taxes, depreciation and rental revenue.
	We are subject to the Texas Margin Tax, which is computed by applying the applicable tax rate (1% for us) to the profit margin, which generally will be determined for us as total revenue less a 30% standard deduction.  Although the Texas Margin Tax is not an income tax, FASB ASC 740, “Income Taxes” applies to the Texas Margin Tax.  For the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, we recognized approximately $82,000 and $67,000 in margin tax provision, respectively.

Equity

Equity	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Equity	EQUITY
	Common Shares
	Under our declaration of trust, as amended, we have authority to issue up to 400,000,000 common shares of beneficial interest, $0.001 par value per share, and up to 50,000,000 preferred shares of beneficial interest, $0.001 par value per share.
	Equity Offerings
	On June 19, 2013, we entered into five equity distribution agreements for an at-the-market distribution program.  Pursuant to the terms and conditions of the agreements, we can issue and sell up to an aggregate of $50 million of our common shares. Actual sales will depend on a variety of factors to be determined by us from time to time, including (among others) market conditions, the trading price of our common shares, capital needs and our determinations of the appropriate sources of funding for us, and will be made in transactions that will be deemed to be “at-the-market” offerings as defined in Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. We have no obligation to sell any of our common shares, and could at any time suspend offers under the agreements or terminate the agreements. During the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, we did not sell any common shares under the equity distribution program.
	Operating Partnership Units
	Substantially all of our business is conducted through our Operating Partnership.  We are the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership.  As of March 31, 2015, we owned a 98.3% interest in the Operating Partnership.
	Limited partners in the Operating Partnership holding OP units have the right to convert their OP units into cash or, at our option, common shares at a ratio of one OP unit for one common share.  Distributions to OP unit holders are paid at the same rate per unit as distributions per share to holders of Whitestone common shares.  As of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, there were 23,347,840 and 22,926,599 OP units outstanding, respectively.  We owned 22,957,230 and 22,528,207 OP units as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, respectively. The balance of the OP units is owned by third parties, including certain trustees.  Our weighted average share ownership in the Operating Partnership was approximately 98.3% and 97.5% for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, 7,782 and 11,403 OP units, respectively, were redeemed for an equal number of common shares.
	Distributions
	The following table summarizes the cash distributions paid or payable to holders of common shares and to holders of noncontrolling OP units during each quarter during 2014 and the three months ended March 31, 2015 (in thousands, except per share/unit data):
		Common Shares				Noncontrolling OP Unit Holders				Total
	Quarter Paid	Distributions Per Common Share		Total Amount Paid		Distributions Per OP Unit		Total Amount Paid		Total Amount Paid
	2015
	First Quarter	$	0.285	$	6,526	$	0.285	$	113	$	6,639
	Total	$	0.285	$	6,526	$	0.285	$	113	$	6,639
	2014
	Fourth Quarter	$	0.285	$	6,484	$	0.285	$	114	$	6,598
	Third Quarter	0.285		6,457		0.285		126		6,583
	Second Quarter	0.285		6,367		0.285		152		6,519
	First Quarter	0.285		6,231		0.285		158		6,389
	Total	$	1.14	$	25,539	$	1.14	$	550	$	26,089

Incentive_Share_Plan

Incentive Share Plan	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Employee Incentive Share Plan	INCENTIVE SHARE PLAN
	On July 29, 2008, our shareholders approved the 2008 Plan. On December 22, 2010, our board of trustees amended the 2008 Plan to allow for awards in or related to Class B common shares pursuant to the 2008 Plan. On June 27, 2012, our Class B common shares were redesignated as “common shares.” The 2008 Plan, as amended, provides that awards may be made with respect to common shares of Whitestone or OP units, which may be converted into cash or, at our option, common shares of Whitestone. The maximum aggregate number of common shares that may be issued under the 2008 Plan is increased upon each issuance of common shares by Whitestone so that at any time the maximum number of shares that may be issued under the 2008 Plan shall equal 12.5% of the aggregate number of common shares of Whitestone and OP units issued and outstanding (other than shares and/or OP units issued to or held by Whitestone).
	The Compensation Committee of our board of trustees administers the 2008 Plan, except with respect to awards to non-employee trustees, for which the 2008 Plan is administered by our board of trustees.  The Compensation Committee is authorized to grant share options, including both incentive share options and non-qualified share options, as well as share appreciation rights, either with or without a related option. The Compensation Committee is also authorized to grant restricted common shares, restricted common share units, performance awards and other share-based awards.
	On April 2, 2014, the Compensation Committee approved the modification of the vesting provisions with respect to awards of an aggregate of 633,704 restricted common shares and restricted common share units for 51 of our employees. The modified time-based shares will vest annually in three equal installments. The modified performance-based restricted common shares and restricted common share units were modified to include performance-based vesting based on achievement of certain absolute financial goals, as well as one to two years of time-based vesting post achievement of financial goals. Continued employment is required through the applicable vesting date. Additionally, 2,049,116 restricted performance-based common share units were granted with the same vesting conditions as the modified performance-based grants described above. If the performance targets are not met prior to December 31, 2018, any unvested performance-based restricted common shares and restricted common units will be forfeited.
	A summary of the share-based incentive plan activity as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2015 is as follows:
		Shares		Weighted Average
				Grant Date
				Fair Value
	Non-vested at January 1, 2015	2,411,068		$	14.45
	Granted	46,100		15.69
	Vested	—		—
	Forfeited	(39,000	)	14.45
	Non-vested at March 31, 2015	2,418,168		$	14.47
	Available for grant at March 31, 2015	622,292
	A summary of our non-vested and vested shares activity for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2011 is presented below:
		Shares Granted				Shares Vested
		Non-Vested Shares Issued		Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value		Vested Shares		Total Vest-Date Fair Value
								(in thousands)
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2015	46,100		$	15.69	—		$	—
	Year Ended December 31, 2014	2,058,930		14.4		(133,774	)	1,721
	Year Ended December 31, 2013	328,005		15.43		(15,270	)	224
	Year Ended December 31, 2012	99,700		13.03		(16,208	)	223
	Year Ended December 31, 2011	—		—		(5,169	)	—
	Total compensation recognized in earnings for share-based payments was $1,674,000 and $373,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.
	Based on our current financial projections, we expect approximately 81% of the unvested awards to vest over the next 51 months. As of March 31, 2015, there was approximately $11.7 million in unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding non-vested performance-based shares, which are expected to vest over a period of 51 months and approximately $4.0 million in unrecognized compensation cost related to outstanding non-vested time-based shares, which are expected to be recognized over a period of approximately 24 months beginning on April 1, 2015.
	We expect to record approximately $6.1 million in non-cash share-based compensation expense in 2015 and $11.3 million subsequent to 2015. The unrecognized share-based compensation cost is expected to vest over a weighted average period of 36 months. The dilutive impact of the performance-based shares will be included in the denominator of the earnings per share calculation beginning in the period that the performance conditions are expected to be met.

Grants_to_Trustees

Grants to Trustees	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Grants to Trustees [Abstract]
Grants To Trustees	GRANTS TO TRUSTEES
	On October 24, 2014, each of our four independent trustees and one trustee emeritus was granted 1,500 common shares, which vested immediately. The 7,500 common shares granted to our trustees had a grant date fair value of $14.53 per share. On December 9, 2014, two of our independent trustees elected to receive a total of 2,314 common shares with a grant date fair value of $14.69 in lieu of cash for board fees. The fair value of the shares granted were determined using quoted prices available on the date of grant.

Segment_Information

Segment Information	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Information	SEGMENT INFORMATION
	Historically, our management has not differentiated results of operations by property type or location and, therefore, does not present segment information.

Real_Estate

Real Estate	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Real Estate [Abstract]
Real Estate Disclosure	REAL ESTATE
	Property Acquisitions. On March 31, 2015, we acquired City View Village, a property that meets our Community Centered Property™ strategy, for approximately $6.3 million in cash and net prorations. The 17,870 square foot property was 100% leased at the time of purchase and is located in San Antonio, Texas.
	On December 24, 2014, we acquired the hard corner at our Village Square at Dana Park property for approximately $4.7 million, in exchange for the assumption of a $2.6 million non-recourse loan and cash of $2.1 million. The 12,047 square foot property was 88% leased at the time of purchase and is located in the Mesa submarket of Phoenix, Arizona.
	On December 24, 2014, we acquired The Shops at Williams Trace, a property that meets our Community Centered Property™ strategy, for approximately $20.2 million in cash and net prorations. The 132,991 square foot property was 87% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Sugar Land, Texas.
	On December 24, 2014, we acquired Williams Trace Plaza, a property that meets our Community Centered Property™ strategy, for approximately $20.4 million in cash and net prorations. The 129,222 square foot property was 95% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Sugar Land, Texas.
	On December 19, 2014, we acquired a 1.39 acre parcel of undeveloped land for $0.9 million in cash and net prorations. The undeveloped land parcel is adjacent to our Fulton Ranch Towne Center property.
	On November 5, 2014, we acquired Fulton Ranch Towne Center, a property that meets our Community Centered Property™ strategy, for approximately $29.3 million in cash and net prorations. The 113,281.0 square foot property was 86% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Chandler, Arizona.
	On November 5, 2014, we acquired The Promenade at Fulton Ranch, a property that meets our Community Centered Property™ strategy, for approximately $18.6 million in cash and net prorations. The 98,792 square foot property was 76% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Chandler, Arizona.
	On September 19, 2014, we acquired The Strand at Huebner Oaks, a property that meets our Community Centered Property™ strategy, for approximately $18.0 million in cash and net prorations. The 73,920 square foot property was 90% leased at the time of purchase and is located in San Antonio, Texas.
	On July 1, 2014, we acquired Heritage Trace Plaza, a property that meets our Community Centered Property™ strategy, for approximately $20.1 million in cash and net prorations. The 70,431 square foot property was 98% leased at the time of purchase and is located in Fort Worth, Texas.
	Property Dispositions. On December 31, 2014, we completed the sale of three office buildings (Zeta, Royal Crest and Featherwood), located in the Clear Lake suburb of Houston, Texas, for $10.3 million. This disposition was pursuant to our strategy of recycling capital by disposing of non-core properties that do not fit our Community Centered Property™ strategy. As part of the transaction, we provided short-term seller financing of $2.5 million. We recorded a gain on sale of $4.4 million, including recognizing a $1.9 million gain on sale for the year ended December 31, 2014 and deferring the remaining $2.5 million gain on sale to be recognized upon receipt of principal payments on the financing provided by us.
	The operating results for properties classified as discontinued operations consists of the following (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2015			2014
	Property revenues	$	1		$	412
	Property expenses	8			169
	Depreciation and amortization	—			79
	Interest expense	—			43
	Provision for income taxes	—			3
	Loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets	1			(2		)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations	$	(8	)	$	120

Summary_of_Significant_Account1

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Basis of Consolidation	Basis of Consolidation.  We are the sole general partner of the Operating Partnership and possess full legal control and authority over the operations of the Operating Partnership.  As of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014, we owned a majority of the partnership interests in the Operating Partnership.  Consequently, the accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Operating Partnership.  All significant inter-company balances have been eliminated. Noncontrolling interests in the accompanying consolidated financial statements represents the share of equity and earnings of the Operating Partnership allocable to holders of partnership interests other than us.  Net income or loss is allocated to noncontrolling interests based on the weighted average percentage ownership of the Operating Partnership during the period.  Issuance of additional common shares of beneficial interest in Whitestone (the “common shares”) and units of limited partnership interest in the Operating Partnership that are convertible into cash or, at our option, common shares on a one-for-one basis (the “OP units”) changes the ownership interests of both the noncontrolling interests and Whitestone.
Basis of Accounting	Basis of Accounting.  Our financial records are maintained on the accrual basis of accounting whereby revenues are recognized when earned and expenses are recorded when incurred.
Use of Estimates	Use of Estimates.   The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent liabilities as of the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Significant estimates that we use include the estimated fair values of properties acquired, the estimated useful lives for depreciable and amortizable assets and costs, the estimated allowance for doubtful accounts, the estimated fair value of interest rate swaps and the estimates supporting our impairment analysis for the carrying values of our real estate assets.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Reclassifications	Reclassifications.  We have reclassified certain prior period amounts in the accompanying consolidated financial statements in order to be consistent with the current period presentation.  These reclassifications had no effect on net income, total assets, total liabilities or equity.
Marketable Securities	Marketable Securities. We classify our existing marketable equity securities as available-for-sale in accordance with the Financial Accounting Standards Board's (“FASB”) Investments-Debt and Equity Securities guidance. These securities are carried at fair value with unrealized gains and losses reported in equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income or loss. The fair value of the marketable securities is determined using Level 1 inputs under FASB Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures.” Level 1 inputs represent quoted prices available in an active market for identical investments as of the reporting date. Gains and losses on securities sold are based on the specific identification method, and are reported as a component of interest, dividend and other investment income.
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities	Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities. We occasionally utilize derivative financial instruments, principally interest rate swaps, to manage our exposure to fluctuations in interest rates. We have established policies and procedures for risk assessment, and the approval, reporting and monitoring of derivative financial instruments. We recognize our interest rate swaps as cash flow hedges with the effective portion of the changes in fair value recorded in comprehensive income (loss) and subsequently reclassified into earnings in the period that the hedged transaction affects earnings. Any ineffective portion of a cash flow hedges' change in fair value is recorded immediately into earnings. Our cash flow hedges are determined using Level 2 inputs under ASC 820. Level 2 inputs represent quoted prices in active markets for similar assets or liabilities; quoted prices in markets that are not active; and model-derived valuations whose inputs are observable. As of March 31, 2015, we consider our cash flow hedges to be highly effective.
Development Properties	Development Properties. Land, buildings and improvements are recorded at cost. Expenditures related to the development of real estate are carried at cost which includes capitalized carrying charges and development costs. Carrying charges (interest, real estate taxes, loan fees, and direct and indirect development costs related to buildings under construction), are capitalized as part of construction in progress. The capitalization of such costs ceases when the property, or any completed portion, becomes available for occupancy. For the three months ended March 31, 2015, approximately $26,000 and $16,000 in interest expense and real estate taxes, respectively, were capitalized. For the three months ended March 31, 2014, approximately $25,000 and $25,000 in interest expense and real estate taxes, respectively, were capitalized.
Share-Based Compensation	Share-Based Compensation.   From time to time, we award nonvested restricted common share awards or restricted common share unit awards, which may be converted into common shares, to executive officers and employees under our 2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan (the “2008 Plan”).  The vast majority of the awarded shares and units vest when certain performance conditions are met.  We recognize compensation expense when achievement of the performance conditions is probable based on management's most recent estimates using the fair value of the shares as of the grant date. We recognized $1,674,000 and $373,000 in share-based compensation for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively
Noncontrolling Interests	Noncontrolling Interests.  Noncontrolling interests is the portion of equity in a subsidiary not attributable to a parent.  The ownership interests not held by the parent are considered noncontrolling interests.  Accordingly, we have reported noncontrolling interests in equity on the consolidated balance sheets but separate from Whitestone's equity.  On the consolidated statements of operations, subsidiaries are reported at the consolidated amount, including both the amount attributable to Whitestone and noncontrolling interests.  The consolidated statement of changes in equity is included for quarterly financial statements, including beginning balances, activity for the period and ending balances for shareholders' equity, noncontrolling interests and total equity.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements	Recent Accounting Pronouncements.  In April 2014, the FASB issued guidance updating the criteria for reporting the disposal of a component of an entity as a discontinued operation. This guidance was effective for reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2014 with early adoption permitted only for disposals that have not been reported in financial statements previously issued or available for issuance. We have adopted the guidance beginning with the year ended December 31, 2014.
	In April 2015, the FASB issued guidance requiring that debt issuance costs related to a recognized debt liability be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability. This guidance is effective retrospectively for reporting periods beginning on or after December 15, 2015 with early adoption permitted only for financial statements that have not been previously issued. We are currently in the process of evaluating the impact of adoption on our consolidated balance sheets.

Marketable_Securities_Tables

Marketable Securities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]
Schedule of Available-for-Sale Securities	All of our marketable securities were classified as available-for-sale securities as of March 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014. Available-for-sale securities consisted of the following (in thousands):
		March 31, 2015
		Amortized Cost		Gains in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income		Losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income			Estimated Fair Value
	Real estate sector common stock	$	1,106	$	—	$	(91	)	$	1,015
	Total available-for-sale securities	$	1,106	$	—	$	(91	)	$	1,015
		December 31, 2014
		Amortized Cost		Gains in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income		Losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income			Estimated Fair Value
	Real estate sector common stock	$	1,106	$	—	$	(133	)	$	973
	Total available-for-sale securities	$	1,106	$	—	$	(133	)	$	973

Accrued_Rents_and_Accounts_Rec1

Accrued Rents and Accounts Receivable, Net (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Receivables [Abstract]
Schedule of Accrued Rent and Accounts Receivable, Net	Accrued rents and accounts receivable, net consists of amounts accrued, billed and due from tenants, allowance for doubtful accounts and other receivables as follows (in thousands):
		March 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
	Tenant receivables	$	8,560		$	7,998
	Accrued rents and other recoveries	8,776			8,800
	Allowance for doubtful accounts	(5,148		)	(4,964		)
	Total	$	12,188		$	11,834

Unamortized_Leasing_Commission1

Unamortized Leasing Commissions and Loan Costs (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Unamortized Leasing Comissions and Loan Costs	Costs which have been deferred consist of the following (in thousands):
		March 31, 2015			December 31, 2014
	Lease commissions	$	5,932		$	5,936
	Deferred financing cost	5,821			5,785
	Total cost	11,753			11,721
	Less: lease commissions accumulated amortization	(2,395		)	(2,373		)
	Less: deferred financing cost accumulated amortization	(768		)	(469		)
	Total cost, net of accumulated amortization	$	8,590		$	8,879

Debt_Tables

Debt (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Debt	Debt consisted of the following as of the dates indicated (in thousands):
	Description		March 31, 2015		December 31, 2014
	Fixed rate notes
	$10.5 million, LIBOR plus 2.00% Note, due September 24, 2018 (1)		$	10,400	$	10,460
	$50.0 million, 0.84% plus 1.75% to 2.50% Note, due February 17, 2017 (2)		50,000		50,000
	$37.0 million 3.76% Note, due December 1, 2020		35,858		36,090
	$6.5 million 3.80% Note, due January 1, 2019		6,314		6,355
	$19.0 million 4.15% Note, due December 1, 2024		19,000		19,000
	$20.2 million 4.28% Note, due June 6, 2023		20,200		20,200
	$14.0 million 4.34% Note, due September 11, 2024		14,000		14,000
	$14.3 million 4.34% Note, due September 11, 2024		14,300		14,300
	$16.5 million 4.97% Note, due September 26, 2023		16,450		16,450
	$15.1 million 4.99% Note, due January 6, 2024		15,060		15,060
	$9.2 million, Prime Rate less 2.00%, due December 29, 2017 (3)		7,888		7,888
	$2.6 million 5.46% Note, due October 1, 2023		2,576		2,583
	$11.1 million 5.87% Note, due August 6, 2016		11,531		11,607
	$0.9 million 2.97% Note, due November 28, 2015		847		—
	Floating rate notes
	Unsecured line of credit, LIBOR plus 1.40% to 1.95%, due November 7, 2018		129,100		120,100
	$50.0 million, LIBOR plus 1.35% to 1.90% Note, due November 7, 2019		50,000		50,000
			$	403,524	$	394,093
	(1)	Promissory note includes an interest rate swap that fixed the interest rate at 3.55% for the duration of the term.
	(2)	Promissory note includes an interest rate swap that fixed the LIBOR portion of our $50 million term loan under our previous unsecured revolving credit facility at 0.84%.
	(3)	Promissory note includes an interest rate swap that fixed the interest rate at 5.72% for the duration of the term. As part of our acquisition of Paradise Plaza in August 2012, we recorded a discount on the note of $1.3 million, which amortizes into interest expense over the life of the loan and results in an imputed interest rate of 4.13%.
Schedule of Maturities of Debt	Scheduled maturities of our outstanding debt as of March 31, 2015 were as follows (in thousands):
	Year		Amount Due
	2015		$	2,287
	2016		13,269
	2017		60,212
	2018		141,236
	2019		58,049
	Thereafter		128,471
	Total		$	403,524

Derivatives_and_Hedging_Activi1

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of activity and fair value of interest rate swaps	A summary of our interest rate swap activity is as follows (in thousands):
			Amount Recognized as Comprehensive Loss				Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings	Amount of Loss Recognized in Earnings (1)
	Three months ended March 31, 2015		$	(319	)		Interest expense	$	(207	)
	Three months ended March 31, 2014		$	(38	)		Interest expense	$	(190	)
	(1)	We did not recognize any ineffective portion of our interest rate swaps in earnings for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and 2014.
	The fair value of our interest rate swaps is as follows (in thousands):
			Balance Sheet Location		Estimated Fair Value
	Interest rate swaps:
	31-Mar-15		Accounts payable and accrued expenses		$	1,247
	31-Dec-14		Accounts payable and accrued expenses		$	1,016

Earnings_Loss_Per_Share_Tables

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share
		Three Months Ended March 31,
	(in thousands, except per share data)	2015			2014
	Numerator:
	Income from continuing operations	$	1,629		$	2,312
	Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	(28		)	(57		)
	Distributions paid on unvested restricted shares	(107		)	(19		)
	Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	1,494			2,236
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations	(8		)	120
	Less: Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	1			(3		)
	Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT	(7		)	117
	Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	$	1,487		$	2,353
	Denominator:
	Weighted average number of common shares - basic	22,577			21,823
	Effect of dilutive securities:
	Unvested restricted shares	649			126
	Weighted average number of common shares - dilutive	23,226			21,949
	Earnings Per Share:
	Basic:
	Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	$	0.07		$	0.1
	Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT	0			0.01
	Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	$	0.07		$	0.11
	Diluted:
	Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	$	0.06		$	0.1
	Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT	0			0.01
	Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	$	0.06		$	0.11

Equity_Tables

Equity (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Stockholders' Equity Note [Abstract]
Schedule of Distributions	The following table summarizes the cash distributions paid or payable to holders of common shares and to holders of noncontrolling OP units during each quarter during 2014 and the three months ended March 31, 2015 (in thousands, except per share/unit data):
		Common Shares				Noncontrolling OP Unit Holders				Total
	Quarter Paid	Distributions Per Common Share		Total Amount Paid		Distributions Per OP Unit		Total Amount Paid		Total Amount Paid
	2015
	First Quarter	$	0.285	$	6,526	$	0.285	$	113	$	6,639
	Total	$	0.285	$	6,526	$	0.285	$	113	$	6,639
	2014
	Fourth Quarter	$	0.285	$	6,484	$	0.285	$	114	$	6,598
	Third Quarter	0.285		6,457		0.285		126		6,583
	Second Quarter	0.285		6,367		0.285		152		6,519
	First Quarter	0.285		6,231		0.285		158		6,389
	Total	$	1.14	$	25,539	$	1.14	$	550	$	26,089

Incentive_Share_Plan_Tables

Incentive Share Plan (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-Based Incentive Plan Activity	A summary of the share-based incentive plan activity as of and for the three months ended March 31, 2015 is as follows:
		Shares		Weighted Average
				Grant Date
				Fair Value
	Non-vested at January 1, 2015	2,411,068		$	14.45
	Granted	46,100		15.69
	Vested	—		—
	Forfeited	(39,000	)	14.45
	Non-vested at March 31, 2015	2,418,168		$	14.47
	Available for grant at March 31, 2015	622,292
Schedule of Nonvested and Vested Shares Activity	A summary of our non-vested and vested shares activity for the three months ended March 31, 2015 and years ended December 31, 2014, 2013, 2012 and 2011 is presented below:
		Shares Granted				Shares Vested
		Non-Vested Shares Issued		Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value		Vested Shares		Total Vest-Date Fair Value
								(in thousands)
	Three Months Ended March 31, 2015	46,100		$	15.69	—		$	—
	Year Ended December 31, 2014	2,058,930		14.4		(133,774	)	1,721
	Year Ended December 31, 2013	328,005		15.43		(15,270	)	224
	Year Ended December 31, 2012	99,700		13.03		(16,208	)	223
	Year Ended December 31, 2011	—		—		(5,169	)	—

Real_Estate_d_Tables

Real Estate d (Tables)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015
Real Estate [Abstract]
Schedule of operating results for properties classified as discontinued operations	The operating results for properties classified as discontinued operations consists of the following (in thousands):
		Three Months Ended March 31,
		2015			2014
	Property revenues	$	1		$	412
	Property expenses	8			169
	Depreciation and amortization	—			79
	Interest expense	—			43
	Provision for income taxes	—			3
	Loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets	1			(2		)
	Income (loss) from discontinued operations	$	(8	)	$	120

Interim_Financial_Statements_D

Interim Financial Statements (Details)	1 Months Ended
	Jul. 31, 2004	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
		CommercialProperties	CommercialProperties
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Reorganization and conversion, number of common shares (in shares)	1.42857
Wholly Owned Properties [Member]
Real Estate Properties [Line Items]
Number of commercial properties (in commercial properties)		64	63

Summary_of_Significant_Account2

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Conversion basis for common shares to OP units	1
Interest expense capitalized	$26,000	$25,000
Real estate tax capitalized	16,000	25,000
Share-based compensation	$1,674,000	$373,000

Marketable_Securities_Details

Marketable Securities (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	$1,106,000		$1,106,000
Gains in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	0		0
Losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	-91,000		-133,000
Estimated Fair Value	1,015,000		973,000
Proceeds from sales of marketable securities	0	0
Net unrealized holding loss on available-for-sale securities	-91,000	-146,000
Real Estate Common Stock [Member]
Schedule of Available-for-sale Securities [Line Items]
Amortized Cost	1,106,000		1,106,000
Gains in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	0		0
Losses in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income	-91,000		-133,000
Estimated Fair Value	$1,015,000		$973,000

Accrued_Rents_and_Accounts_Rec2

Accrued Rents and Accounts Receivable, Net (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Receivables [Abstract]
Tenant receivables	$8,560	$7,998
Accrued rents and other recoveries	8,776	8,800
Allowance for doubtful accounts	-5,148	-4,964
Total	$12,188	$11,834

Unamortized_Leasing_Commission2

Unamortized Leasing Commissions and Loan Costs (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Deferred Costs, Capitalized, Prepaid, and Other Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Lease commissions	$5,932	$5,936
Deferred financing cost	5,821	5,785
Total cost	11,753	11,721
Less: lease commissions accumulated amortization	-2,395	-2,373
Less: deferred financing cost accumulated amortization	-768	-469
Total cost, net of accumulated amortization	$8,590	$8,879

Debt_Schedule_of_Debt_Details

Debt (Schedule of Debt) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Nov. 07, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Aug. 08, 2012
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	$403,524,000			$394,093,000
Fixed rate notes | $10.5 million, LIBOR plus 2.00% Note, due September 24, 2018 | LIBOR Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	10,400,000			10,460,000
Face amount of debt	10,500,000			10,500,000
Basis spread on variable rate	2.00%	2.00%
Fixed rate notes | $50.0 million, 0.84% plus 1.75% to 2.50% Note, due February 17, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	50,000,000			50,000,000
Face amount of debt	50,000,000			50,000,000
Imputed interest rate	0.84%			0.84%
Fixed rate notes | $50.0 million, 0.84% plus 1.75% to 2.50% Note, due February 17, 2017 | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.75%	1.75%
Fixed rate notes | $50.0 million, 0.84% plus 1.75% to 2.50% Note, due February 17, 2017 | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	2.50%	2.50%
Fixed rate notes | $37.0 million 3.76% Note, due December 1, 2020
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	35,858,000			36,090,000
Stated interest rate	3.76%			3.76%
Face amount of debt	37,000,000			37,000,000
Fixed rate notes | $6.5 million 3.80% Note, due January 1, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	6,314,000			6,355,000
Stated interest rate	3.80%			3.80%
Face amount of debt	6,500,000			6,500,000
Fixed rate notes | $19.0 million 4.15% Note, due December 1, 2024
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	19,000,000			19,000,000
Stated interest rate	4.15%			4.15%
Face amount of debt	19,000,000			19,000,000
Fixed rate notes | $20.2 million 4.28% Note, due June 6, 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	20,200,000			20,200,000
Stated interest rate	4.28%			4.28%
Face amount of debt	20,200,000			20,200,000
Fixed rate notes | $14.0 million 4.34% Note, due September 11, 2024
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	14,000,000			14,000,000
Stated interest rate	4.34%			4.34%
Face amount of debt	14,000,000			14,000,000
Fixed rate notes | $14.3 million 4.34% Note, due September 11, 2024
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	14,300,000			14,300,000
Stated interest rate	4.34%			4.34%
Face amount of debt	14,300,000			14,300,000
Fixed rate notes | $16.5 million 4.97% Note, due September 26, 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	16,450,000			16,450,000
Stated interest rate	4.97%			4.97%
Face amount of debt	16,500,000			16,500,000
Fixed rate notes | $15.1 million 4.99% Note, due January 6, 2024
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	15,060,000			15,060,000
Stated interest rate	4.99%			4.99%
Face amount of debt	15,100,000			15,100,000
Fixed rate notes | $9.2 million, Prime Rate less 2.00%, due December 29, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Unamortized discount					1,300,000
Imputed interest rate					4.13%
Fixed rate notes | $9.2 million, Prime Rate less 2.00%, due December 29, 2017 | Prime Rate
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	7,888,000			7,888,000
Face amount of debt	9,200,000			9,200,000
Basis spread on variable rate	2.00%	2.00%
Fixed rate notes | $2.6 million 5.46% Note, due October 1, 2023
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	2,576,000			2,583,000
Stated interest rate	5.46%			5.46%
Face amount of debt	2,600,000			2,600,000
Fixed rate notes | $11.1 million 5.87% Note, due August 6, 2016
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	11,531,000			11,607,000
Stated interest rate	5.87%			5.87%
Face amount of debt	11,100,000			11,100,000
Fixed rate notes | $0.9 million 2.97% Note, due November 28, 2015
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	847,000			0
Floating rate notes | Unsecured line of credit, LIBOR plus 1.40% to 1.95%, due November 7, 2018 | LIBOR Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	129,100,000			120,100,000
Floating rate notes | Unsecured line of credit, LIBOR plus 1.40% to 1.95%, due November 7, 2018 | Minimum | LIBOR Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.40%	1.40%
Floating rate notes | Unsecured line of credit, LIBOR plus 1.40% to 1.95%, due November 7, 2018 | Maximum | LIBOR Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.95%	1.95%
Floating rate notes | $50.0 million, LIBOR plus 1.35% to 1.90% Note, due November 7, 2019
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt	50,000,000			50,000,000
Floating rate notes | $50.0 million, LIBOR plus 1.35% to 1.90% Note, due November 7, 2019 | LIBOR Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Notes payable	50,000,000			50,000,000
Floating rate notes | $50.0 million, LIBOR plus 1.35% to 1.90% Note, due November 7, 2019 | Minimum | LIBOR Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.35%	1.35%
Floating rate notes | $50.0 million, LIBOR plus 1.35% to 1.90% Note, due November 7, 2019 | Maximum | LIBOR Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.90%	1.90%
Interest rate swap | $10.5 million, LIBOR plus 2.00% Note, due September 24, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate	3.55%
Interest rate swap | $50.0 million, 0.84% plus 1.75% to 2.50% Note, due February 17, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate	0.84%
Interest rate swap | $9.2 million, Prime Rate less 2.00%, due December 29, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Stated interest rate	5.72%
Term loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt			50,000,000
Term loan | Minimum | LIBOR Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate			1.35%
Term loan | Maximum | LIBOR Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate			1.90%
Term loan | $50.0 million, 0.84% plus 1.75% to 2.50% Note, due February 17, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt	$50,000,000

Debt_Narrative_Details

Debt (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	0 Months Ended
	Nov. 07, 2014	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 24, 2014	Nov. 26, 2014	Sep. 03, 2014	Aug. 26, 2014
		CollateralizedProperties
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Secured debt		$173,600,000
Number of collateralized properties (in collateralized properties)		20
Carrying value of collateralized properties		216,500,000
Village Square at Dana Park Note [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt			2,600,000
Stated interest rate			5.46%
Headquarters Note [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt				19,000,000
Stated interest rate				4.15%
Pecos Note [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt					14,000,000
Stated interest rate					4.34%
Starwood Note [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt						14,300,000
Stated interest rate						4.34%
Revolving credit facility
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit facility, maximum borrowing capacity	400,000,000
Credit facility, expanded maximum borrowing capacity	700,000,000
Revolving credit facility | LIBOR Rate [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.00%
Revolving credit facility | LIBOR Rate [Member] | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.40%
Revolving credit facility | LIBOR Rate [Member] | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.95%
Revolving credit facility | Unsecured line of credit, LIBOR plus 1.40% to 1.95%, due November 7, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Credit facility, remaining borrowing capacity		270,900,000
Term loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt	50,000,000
Term loan | LIBOR Rate [Member] | Minimum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.35%
Term loan | LIBOR Rate [Member] | Maximum
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Basis spread on variable rate	1.90%
Floating rate notes | Unsecured line of credit, LIBOR plus 1.40% to 1.95%, due November 7, 2018
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Line of credit outstanding		229,100,000
Existing term loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Face amount of debt	50,000,000

Debt_Schedule_of_Maturities_of

Debt (Schedule of Maturities of Debt) (Details) (USD $)	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2015	$2,287
2016	13,269
2017	60,212
2018	141,236
2019	58,049
Thereafter	128,471
Total	$403,524	$394,093

Derivatives_and_Hedging_Activi2

Derivatives and Hedging Activities (Details) (Interest Rate Swaps [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014
Interest Expense [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Amount Recognized as Comprehensive Income (Loss)	($319)	($38)
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings	-207	-190
Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses [Member]
Derivative [Line Items]
Estimated Fair Value	$1,247		$1,016

Earnings_Loss_Per_Share_Detail

Earnings (Loss) Per Share (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Distributions to holders of certain restricted common shares charged against earnings	$1,674,000	$373,000
Numerator:
Income from continuing operations	1,629,000	2,312,000
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests	-28,000	-57,000
Distributions paid on unvested restricted shares	-107,000	-19,000
Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	1,494,000	2,236,000
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	-8,000	120,000
Less: Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests	1,000	-3,000
Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT	-7,000	117,000
Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares	1,487,000	2,353,000
Denominator:
Weighted average number of common shares - basic (in shares)	22,577,000	21,823,000
Effect of dilutive securities:
Unvested restricted shares (in shares)	649,000	126,000
Weighted average number of common shares - dilutive (in shares)	23,226,000	21,949,000
Basic:
Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (in dollars per share)	$0.07	$0.10
Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT (in dollars per share)	$0	$0.01
Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (in dollars per share)	$0.07	$0.11
Diluted:
Income from continuing operations attributable to Whitestone REIT excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (in dollars per share)	$0.06	$0.10
Income from discontinued operations attributable to Whitestone REIT (in dollars per share)	$0	$0.01
Net income attributable to common shareholders excluding amounts attributable to unvested restricted shares (in dollars per share)	$0.06	$0.11
OP Units [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
OP units excluded from diluted earnings per share because their effect would be anti-dilutive	392,599	555,681
Restricted Stock [Member]
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items]
Distributions to holders of certain restricted common shares	116,000	38,000
Distributions to holders of certain restricted common shares charged against earnings	$9,000	$19,000

Income_Taxes_Details

Income Taxes (Details) (Texas [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014
Texas [Member]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Applicable tax rate used to determine state margin tax	1.00%
Standard deduction rate used to determine state margin tax	30.00%
Margin tax provision recognized	$82,000	$67,000

Equity_Details

Equity (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended					12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Sep. 30, 2014	Jun. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Jun. 19, 2013
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Common shares, authorized (in shares)	400,000,000		400,000,000			400,000,000
Common shares, par value per share (in dollars per share)	$0.00		$0.00			$0.00
Preferred shares, shares authorized (in shares)	50,000,000		50,000,000			50,000,000
Preferred shares, par value per share (in dollars per share)	$0.00		$0.00			$0.00
Equity distribution agreements, authorized amount							$50,000,000
Ownership interest in operating partnership	98.30%
Conversion basis for common shares to OP units	1
Weighted-average share ownership in operating partnership	98.30%	97.50%
Preferred Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Preferred shares, shares authorized (in shares)	50,000,000
Preferred shares, par value per share (in dollars per share)	$0.00
OP Units [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
OP units outstanding (in shares)	23,347,840		22,926,599			22,926,599
OP units owned (in shares)	22,957,230		22,528,207			22,528,207
Conversion of stock, shares converted (in shares)	7,782	11,403
Cash Distribution [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Cash distribution paid	6,639,000	6,389,000	6,598,000	6,583,000	6,519,000	26,089,000
Cash Distribution [Member] | Common Stock [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Cash distribution paid (in dollars per share)	$0.28	0.285	$0.28	$0.28	$0.28	$1.14
Cash distribution paid	6,526,000	6,231,000	6,484,000	6,457,000	6,367,000	25,539,000
Cash Distribution [Member] | OP Units [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Cash distribution paid (in dollars per share)	$0.28	0.285	$0.28	$0.28	$0.28	$1.14
Cash distribution paid	$113,000	158,000	$114,000	$126,000	$152,000	$550,000

Incentive_Share_Plan_Narrative

Incentive Share Plan (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Apr. 02, 2014	Dec. 22, 2010
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Share-based compensation	$1,674,000	$373,000
Minimum | Time-Based Vesting [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period			1 year
Maximum | Time-Based Vesting [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting period			2 years
Restricted Common Shares and Restricted Share Units [Member] | Time and Performance-Based Vesting [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of employees granted an award			51
Aggregate shares granted (in shares)			633,704
Restricted Common Shares and Restricted Share Units [Member] | Performance Vesting [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Aggregate shares granted (in shares)			2,049,116
Non-Cash Share Based Compensation in 2014 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation cost	6,100,000
Non-Cash Share Based Compensation Subsequent to 2014 [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation cost	11,300,000
Unrecognized compensation cost, period for recognition	36 months
2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of maximum number of shares issued under plan to aggregate shares				12.50%
2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan [Member] | Restricted Common Shares and Restricted Share Units [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting percentage	81.00%
2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan [Member] | Performance Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation cost	11,700,000
Award vesting period	51 months
2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan [Member] | Non-Vested Time Based Shares [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Unrecognized compensation cost	$4,000,000
Unrecognized compensation cost, period for recognition	24 months

Incentive_Share_Plan_Schedule_

Incentive Share Plan (Schedule of Share-Based Incentive Plan Activity) (Details) (2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward]
Shares, Non-vested (in shares)	2,411,068
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Non-vested (in dollars per share)	$14.45
Shares, Granted (in shares)	46,100	2,058,930	328,005	99,700	0
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted (in dollars per share)	$15.69	$14.40	$15.43	$13.03	$0
Shares, Vested (in shares)	0	-133,774	-15,270	-16,208	-5,169
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Vested (in dollars per share)	$0
Shares, Forfeited (in shares)	-39,000
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited (in dollars per share)	$14.45
Shares, Non-vested (in shares)	2,418,168	2,411,068
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Non-vested (in dollars per share)	$14.47	$14.45
Shares, Available for grant (in shares)	622,292

Incentive_Share_Plan_Schedule_1

Incentive Share Plan (Schedule of Nonvested and Vested Shares Activity) (Details) (2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan [Member], USD $)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
2008 Long-Term Equity Incentive Ownership Plan [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares, Granted, Non-Vested Shares Isused (in shares)	46,100	2,058,930	328,005	99,700	0
Shares Granted, Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value, Granted (in dollars per share)	$15.69	$14.40	$15.43	$13.03	$0
Shares, Vested (in shares)	0	-133,774	-15,270	-16,208	-5,169
Shares Vested, Total Vest-Date Fair Value	$0	$1,721	$224	$223	$0

Grants_to_Trustees_Details

Grants to Trustees (Details) (Individual Trustee Grant Agreements [Member], USD $)	0 Months Ended
	Dec. 09, 2014	Oct. 24, 2014
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of independent trustees (in trustees)	2	4
Number of trustee emeritus (in trustees)		1
Common Stock [Member]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Restricted stock granted to each trustee (in shares)	2,314	7,500
Restricted stock granted to trustees, vested in period (in shares)		1,500
Restricted stock granted to trustees, weighted-average grant date fair value (in dollars per share)	$14.69	$14.53

Real_Estate_Details

Real Estate (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		0 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015	Mar. 31, 2014	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 24, 2014	Dec. 19, 2014	Nov. 05, 2014	Sep. 19, 2014	Jul. 01, 2014	Dec. 31, 2014	Jul. 22, 2011
Real Estate [Line Items]
Payments to acquire property	$6,300,000	$0
Loss on sale or disposal of assets and properties	-105,000	-84,000
Schedule of operating results for properties classified as discontinued operations
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	-8,000	120,000
City View Village [Member]
Real Estate [Line Items]
Payments to acquire property			6,300,000
Gross leasable area (in square feet)	17,870		17,870
Village Square at Dana Park Hard Corner [Member]
Real Estate [Line Items]
Payments to acquire property				2,100,000
Gross leasable area (in square feet)				12,047
Property percentage occupied				88.00%
Property acquisitions, purchase price				4,700,000
Face amount of debt				2,600,000
The Shops at Williams Trace [Member]
Real Estate [Line Items]
Payments to acquire property				20,200,000
Gross leasable area (in square feet)				132,991
Property percentage occupied				87.00%
Williams Trace Plaza [Member]
Real Estate [Line Items]
Payments to acquire property				20,400,000
Gross leasable area (in square feet)				129,222
Property percentage occupied				95.00%
Fulton Ranch Towne Center Adjacent Parcel [Member]
Real Estate [Line Items]
Payments to acquire property					900,000
Area of land (in acres)					1.39
Fulton Ranch Towne Center [Member]
Real Estate [Line Items]
Payments to acquire property						29,300,000
Gross leasable area (in square feet)						113,281
Property percentage occupied						86.00%
The Promenade at Fulton Ranch [Member]
Real Estate [Line Items]
Payments to acquire property						18,600,000
Gross leasable area (in square feet)						98,792
Property percentage occupied						76.00%
The Strand at Huebner Oaks [Member]
Real Estate [Line Items]
Payments to acquire property							18,000,000
Gross leasable area (in square feet)							73,920
Property percentage occupied							90.00%
Heritage Trace Plaza [Member]
Real Estate [Line Items]
Payments to acquire property								20,100,000
Gross leasable area (in square feet)								70,431
Property percentage occupied								98.00%
Zeta, Royal Crest and Featherwood [Member]
Real Estate [Line Items]
Proceeds from the sale of real estate										10,300,000
Seller financing	2,500,000		2,500,000
Loss on sale or disposal of assets and properties	1,900,000								4,400,000
Gain on sale of property	2,500,000		2,500,000
Schedule of operating results for properties classified as discontinued operations
Property revenues	1,000	412,000
Property expenses	8,000	169,000
Interest expense	0	79,000
Interest expense	0	43,000
Provision for income taxes	0	3,000
Loss (gain) on sale or disposal of assets	1,000	-2,000
Income (loss) from discontinued operations	($8,000)	$120,000