| Component: (Network and Table) | |
|---|---|
| Network | 100560 - Disclosure - Business Combinations - Schedule of Estimated Amortization of Intangible Assets (Detail) (http://www.bluebirdbio.com/20161231/taxonomy/role/DisclosureBusinessCombinationsScheduleOfEstimatedAmortizationOfIntangibleAssetsDetail) |
| Table | (Implied) |
| Reporting Entity [Axis] | 0001293971 (http://www.sec.gov/CIK) |
| Finite Lived Intangible Assets Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] | Period [Axis] |
|---|---|
2014-06-30 | |
Finite Lived Intangible Assets Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] | |
2017 | |
2018 | |
2019 | |
2020 | |
2021 | |
2022 | |
Total |