Froggy,
I also found it difficult to use the kitchen, if it was occupied, but the kitchen will be free at certain times of the day or night to use.
I'm sure the people in the house will be understanding. I even remember one renter who would tell everyone that he likes privacy so he can study. So it's not that big a deal, as long as you say Hi to them or ask them about their day when you do see them. You could even say that you stay in your room because you are studying hard this year. Something like that.
I was lucky that I moved in with 5 other mild mannered and geeky people that liked their independence. You could have a chat with them whilst cooking, but everyone just stayed in their room and set up their own mini apartment within their rooms. One guy had a microwave and a mini fridge set up and bench.
It was hard enough doing that, so I can't imagine what living with a clique of people is like. That would be difficult.
So what did I learn from that experience that I can recommend to you.
In the future I would always get a room with an ensuite/shower/toilet attached. You pay a bit extra, but at least you get a private bathroom which you can also use to fill up your kettle or make boiled meals. So a mini pantry, perhaps a small ice box for cold drinks.
That way you don't always have to go into the kitchen if you don't feel up to it. you then have a choice.
You can also use temporary sound proofing walls, if you needed to. I just listen to an ipod a lot, to make me look busy and to block out noise.
Good luck, it's not easy.
You could also join some places that takes you out of the house, so maybe a gym, night classes, sport, musical instrument, movie club. Something that takes you away from always being in the house, which can be an isolating experience.
You could also just try and chat with them and try to feel relaxed, you can't control what they do or say, but you can still enjoy the house and have a chat, even if it's a short conversation, just so that you are seen as friendly enough.