This is one of those things thats not technically "wrong" but it's kind of scummy. Unless you make it clear from the beginning that you're just hiring the HD for a design, and nothing else.

However, I don't suggest it. The reason why is that there WILL be issues that arise. And your contractor might not be able to make changes or provide solutions that help. Ordering cabinets can also be more complicated than people think. Knowing measurements, how much to order, when to order, where to order from, all of that takes experience that you and a contractor just won't have.

In other words, why half ass it? If you're going to hire a pro let them do their job, as in their WHOLE job. You won't be saving much by doing the legwork yourself.

Most contractors are not cabinet installers. It is a very specialized subset of finish carpentry that commands a premium price. If you are doing a very basic rental apartment, that might be feasible. But in a home that you will use the cabinets every day, and in which they are a major design feature that will be seen ever day, it’s not a good idea to not hire the specialist.

In my experience you end up paying almost the same for a contractor to install the cabinetry as you would the cabinetry company. The risk involved with ordering supply only is that if your contractor damages anything or cuts something wrong and you need to order extra material, then this expense would be on you or the contractor, whereas if it were the cabinetry company's installer then it's taken care of by that company. Or that is how we work anyway. There is less room for error.

Can't hurt asking the question! I have clients ask this all the time. Good luck!